Stories from Old Newspapers

 Dungarvan Leader 12th June 1943

 

Grand Irish Entertainment At Monalour, Melleray Cappoquin

 

On the evening of Ascension Thursday, June 3rd a grand All-Irish Entertainment was held at Moin-na-lobhar under the auspices of the local Irish Class, which was in charge of the well known Irish Teacher, Mr. Sean Prendergast who is also conducting very successful Irish classes for the Co. Waterford Vocational Education Committee at Cnoc-buidhe Carrig-na-gabher and Baile-na-sagarth, Lismore.  The weather proved gloriously fine for an open-air entertainment as the warm rays of the sun were tempered by refreshing and heather-scented breeze which blew down from the lofty Knockmealdown mountains, while the beautiful and stately buildings of the New Church and Monastery of Mount Melleray provided a delightful setting in the rich golden rays of the western sun.  A large and substantial stage had been erected in the open, and there was a wonderfully- large attendance of all the Irish Irelanders from every part of the wide and rugged area extending from Mount Melleray to Ballysaggart.  A stirring Irish Play entitled “The Heiress", which had been specially written by Mr. Sean Prendergast, was performed in faultless style by the various characters, who numbered 20, and all of whom were members of the local Irish class.  The rich and cultured "blas" of the vernacular was a predominent feature throughout, while the splendid acting of the various artists was a treat to witness and was a tribute to the careful training they had received from their patient and efficient teacher. Several stirring Irish songs and choruses figured in the play all of which were rendered with great purity and sweetness being all the more effective in the clam and serene surroundings of such a picturesque spot.  Several beautiful Irish dances were also performed by Mr. W. Farrell, Miss Brigid Tobin, Monalour, Mr. Frank McGrath, Boherberay and others, splendid music being provided by Mr. John O' Brien (violin), and Mr. Thos McGrath (piano-accordeon).  The large and enthusiastic audience present was delighted with the play and the general Entertainment, and Mr. Sean Prendergast the clever author of the play, was warmly complimented by all.   The stage had been kindly erected by Mr. Thos Tobin, Monalour, who also kindly gives the use of his house for the Irish classes, for which the teacher and all the pupils feel deeply grateful.