Brand new Portarlington Musical Society seeks members and stage professionals

Anyone in the Portarlington area who has harboured a secret desire to take to the stage and let their heart 'sing like a bird in flight' or 'dance all night' now has the chance.

A brand new Portarlington Musical Society has been formed by residents in the large Laois Offaly border town.

Launched in June 2025, they are already racing ahead with a plan for a stage play later this year, called The Con and the Constable.

The group got a big turnout for an information night in June and it is holding multiple fundraisers to gather the necessary funds to hold the event, as well as training workshops.

They explain more.

"We are a group of enthusiastic community members who are in the early stages of forming a community-based musical society here in Portarlington, Co. Laois. Our aim is to create an inclusive and creative platform for people of all ages and backgrounds to come together through music, performance, and the arts.

"Our mission is to promote local talent, build confidence and social cohesion, and provide meaningful artistic opportunities in a warm, supportive environment. We envision hosting musicals, concerts, and workshops that not only entertain but also nurture participation, learning, and connection within our community," say Portarlington Musical Society.

The founding committee are: Chairperson Rebecca Buckley, Vice-Chairperson Maureen Jensen, Secretary Jason Carroll, Treasurers: Caroline Cullen and Kim Melia, Public Relations Officer (PRO) Breda Coleman O'Connor, Media Officer Kay Murray and Fundraising Officer Allison Looney.

They have registered with the Association of Irish Musical Societies (AIMS).

The group has launched an online fundraiser for supporters to help them with a target of €20,000. So far it has raised €1,275.

Members are doing a Walkathon to walk 100km in July, with sponsorship cards and online updates on the group's Facebook page. They will also hold a Music Bingo night on October 3 in the Anvil Inn. 

Members are invited to join by August 1, with a form online here, and a yearly membership of €50.

The group have already held workshops in acting, singing and dancing, with more workshops planned. They cost €5 for members and €10 for non members.

The society is looking for paid choreographers, directors and musical directors.

"Who would be interested in our upcoming play and future plans? Please forward your proposal fee along with a bit of background information about you and what you are interested in".

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The applicants are invited to email portarlingtonmusicalsociety@gmail.com by August 1.

Anyone interested in joining or being put on their data base is also invited to email the group. They can also join a WhatsApp group.