Transition Year drama students from Roscommon Community College have achieved extraordinary national success, securing six prestigious All-Ireland awards at the Briery Gap Drama Competition in Macroom, Co. Cork, on Monday, 23rd March.
In a remarkable sweep, the group claimed 1st Overall Winner along with accolades for Best Directors, Best Actor, Best Supporting Role, Best Set and Best Stage Crew, an achievement that firmly establishes the school as a rising force in drama.
Their winning production, an adaptation of Eclipsed by Patricia Burke Brogan, transported audiences to a Magdalene Laundry in 1960s Ireland, shedding light on a deeply painful chapter in the nation’s history. The students’ portrayal was widely praised for its emotional depth, sensitivity, and authenticity. Audience members and adjudicators alike were left in awe as the young performers delivered a moving and respectful interpretation of the challenging material.
Sarah Batista was awarded as Best Actor for her demanding role as Brigit Murphy while Beatriz Rodriguez was awarded Best Supporting Role for her sensitive performance as Mandy Prenderville. Adjudicators commended both students for the genuine connection and emotional honesty they brought to their characters, elevating the production to an exceptional standard.
Central to this success was the guidance of directors Ms Yvonne Doyle and Ms Joanne Cleary, whose vision, dedication, and expertise shaped the production into an award-winning piece of theatre. Their commitment ensured that the students not only performed at the highest level but also fully understood the significance of the story they were telling.
Behind the scenes, the crew also earned exceptional recognition, taking home awards for both Best Set and Best Stage Crew. Under the guidance of Mr Ronan Kelly, their creative vision brought the world of the play vividly to life, while their seamless transitions between scenes ensured a polished and professional performance.
Celebrations began at the much-anticipated awards ceremony in Macroom and continued when the victorious group returned to school. They were greeted with a special guard of honour from fellow students, staff, and proud parents, marking a triumphant homecoming for the talented cast and crew.
In choosing to tell a story both powerful and challenging, these students have not only earned national acclaim but have also shown how courage and creativity can transform difficult history into a deeply moving and unforgettable theatrical success for the TY cast, crew and directors of Eclipsed.
Congratulations to all involved!
Cast: Sarah Batista (Brigit), Beatriz Rodriguez (Mandy), Isabelle Flynn (Cathy), Laura Gomes (Nellie-Nora), Caoimhe Mullarkey (Juliet), Coya Tully (Rosa), Aideen Pearce (Sr Virginia) and Karla Browne (Mother Victoria).
Set Design & Backstage Crew: William Coffey, Katie Hoey, Julia Wasilak, Gabriel McLoughlin, Oisín Connolly, Jonah Finneran, Luke Hayes, Ryan Halligan.
Costumes: Katie Hoey
Sound & Lighting: Michael Hoare and Marek Dybkowski