Local students get set for Dublin performance

The excitement is building for 89 children in north Offaly, as they prepare to take part in a show in Dublin's Convention Centre next month alongside just over 900 students from 16 other schools and the RTE National Symphony Orchestra. Children from Scoil Mhuire Naofa in Rhode and St Mary's Primary School in Edenderry are to be part of "Rain Falling Up", which will be staged on Saturday, November 10. Described as a modern oratorio for children and gravity defying adults, "Rain Falling Up" is a zany musical whirlwind telling the story of just what really happens when little boy Jake tries to turn gravity off. Music for the production is by Brian Irvine, while words are by John McIlduff and animation by Matthew Robins. Fifty girls in fourth, fifth and sixth class in St Mary's Primary School in Edenderry will take part in the upcoming show. Ranging in age from nine to twelve years, the St Mary's choir is involved in many local projects annually, but is particularly delighted to be performing at "Rain Falling Up". "This has been an extremely rewarding journey for myself and the girls involved," teacher Caroline Stone said. "We're in the process of perfecting our performance as we want to be on top form for November 10. It is the chance of a lifetime to perform with the RTE National Symphony Orchestra and we intend to enjoy it immensely." Others schools taking part in the production are in Carlow, Meath, South Dublin, Westmeath and Wicklow. The students will be supported on the day by a choir of older people from South Dublin and Wicklow, while the National Symphony Orchestra will be conducted by Fergus Sheil. The performance wil feature a big screen animation, while the story will be narrated by actress and writer Pauline McLynn. Performances on November 10 will take place at noon and 5pm. Tickets are available for €10 (children and OAPs) and €15, and can be booked through the National Concert Hall at 01 4170000 or www.nch.ie.