Six Offaly nominations for 2026 AIMS awards

Six Offaly people have been nominated for the 2026 AIMS (Association of Irish Musical Societies) Awards.

The AIMS Awards will take place this June in the Gleneagle Hotel in Killarney, where societies from all across Ireland will gather to celebrate the very best in amateur musical theatre.

Sacred Heart School teacher Jay Origan, co-founder of Offaly's newest theatre company, Fun House, has been nominated for her role as Felicia Gabriel in Athlone Musical Society's The Witches of Eastwick.

Tullamore Musical Society received a nomination for Best Programme, created by outgoing PRO Mairéad Brennan.

This marks Mairéad’s second AIMS nomination, having previously been nominated in the same category for TMS’ production of The Addams Family. Mairéad served as PRO for six years and has now stepped into the role of President of Tullamore Musical Society.

Amanda Cunningham received a nomination for Best Supporting Actress for her portrayal of Kashoggi in We Will Rock You.

Amanda joined Tullamore Musical Society over twenty years ago for their 2002 production of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, where she played the Narrator. She holds a teaching diploma from ABD (AssociatedBoard of Dance) and is also a member of Clara Musical Society and Kilcock Musical and Dramatic Society.

Aoife Digan received a nomination for Best Actress for her portrayal of Scaramouche. Aoife, a primary school teacher from Clara, made her TMS debut this year and immediately impressed audiences with her energetic and heartfelt performance.

Aoife’s portrayal of Scaramouche perfectly captured the rebellious spirit, humour and emotion of the character, while also showcasing her incredible vocal ability.

Clara Musical Society, also received two nominations for their production of Frozen.

Wayne Handy of All Sets Scenery received a nomination for Best Backstage Management. Wayne is a longstanding member of Clara MS, and has been working in the theatre business for many years.

Having set up All Set Scenery in 2008, Wayne has been working with societies throughout Ireland providing reliable solution to their set construction.

Finally, Grace Kelly received a nomination for Outstanding Youth Performance for her portrayal of Young Anna.