Butlerstown Variety Group is busy rehearsing for a brand-new show ‘What a Feeling’, which will run for seven consecutive nights beginning on Easter Sunday night. The show has been part of the fabric of the community for five decades and has stood the test of time, with each production constantly raising the bar in terms of performance and variety. Of course, things have changed since the very first ‘Tops of the Parish’ show in 1978 (when it was a fundraiser for Barryroe GAA) but some of the people who were in that show are still involved… and some families now have a third generation taking part!
Anne-Marie O’Brien is the producer and musical director and she is ably assisted by her sister Evelyn. The script writer is their dad, Michael O’Brien. The show is noted for its backdrops and sets, which are the wonderful creations of John Madden, Artistic director. The artwork is done by John and Pat O’Brien.
This show is unique to West Cork; the vast array of talent on offer has been nurtured by Anne-Marie, whose keen aptitude for knowing how to bring out the best in each cast member is very evident. Anne-Marie’s own experience helps her put this show together; from an early age she grew up with music, song, drama and dance all around her. This in turn was the catalyst for her journey through the world of stage and theatre. Anne-Marie’s musicality has been witnessed throughout West Cork, Cork, Munster and Ireland. A huge debt of gratitude is owed to Anne-Marie for all she does for the promotion of the arts in West Cork and people will be looking forward to her latest production with fervent anticipation.
Logistically, nothing is left to chance in ‘Tops’ – the cast has over 120 participants, ranging in age from three to 75, a live band, a back-stage crew, along with many other volunteers, hair and makeup ladies and those who oversee traffic arrangements.
The show lasts about two hours with a 20-minute interval.
Bookings can be made each evening from Monday March 23 from 7.30pm to 9.30pm. Telephone 087-3929917. Tickets €20.
