Musical Society triumps at AIMS awards

In its 50th year, the Londonderry Musical Society proved that the City really is a City Of Culture.

The society’s anniversary production of ‘The King And I’, staged at the city’s Millennium Forum in March, was recognised last month with four nominations and two wins at the Association of Irish Musical Societies Awards, presented in a special ceremony at the Gleneagles Hotel in Killarney, Ireland on June 16.

David Keown won the best actor award for his portrayal of King Monghut, and ‘The Small House Of Uncle Thomas’ Ballet in Act 2 of the production won the best ensemble award. In addition, ‘The King And I’ was named runner-up in the best visual category for best costumes, properties, hair and make-up, and finished third in the best overall show category.

The shows nominated reflected the broad base of musicals staged in the country, from more traditional productions like “The Wizard of Oz” and “Annie” to more modern shows like ‘Sweeney Todd’ and ‘Titanic’. The ceremony was attended by just under 1,000 members from Shannon to Tipperary and from Killarney to Belfast.

Christine Deane, who represented the Londonderry Musical Society at the AIMS awards, said: “The atmosphere was both electric and exhilarating. The music, lighting and staging gave the whole occasion a feel worthy of the Oscars, if not better. Winning an award for yourselves beats the glitz of watching an award being won on television any day.”

“Our success at the AIMS Awards has helped to maintain our high standards of performance for 50 years. Here’s to 50 more years of show-casing local talent and providing our city with fantastic musical theatre!”