Class Acts at Scoil Mhuire!

Trim success in secondary schools drama competition

Students from Scoil Mhuire Secondary School, Trim, took to the stage at the Class Act Secondary School Drama Competition in the Moat Theatre, Naas, marking their debut at the festival with an impressive performance that secured major awards across the three day event.

Organised by The Moat Club and now in its fourth year, the competition featured 15 groups from post primary schools across Ireland, with Scoil Mhuire the sole representatives from Co Meath. With strict guidelines in place, including a 20-minute time limit, a minimum cast of four, and the exclusive use of black stage boxes, the event showcased innovation and creativity in youth theatre. This year’s adjudicator, Evelyn O’Sullivan ADA (Association of Drama Adjudicators), presided over a highly competitive field.

Under the guidance of teacher Clare Atkinson, Scoil Mhuire entered two distinct groups, each presenting contrasting yet equally compelling productions.

The first group performed a self-devised one-act dark comedy titled 'The War Above, The Bunker Below'. Directed by L Cumiskey, with production and sound by C Burke, the piece blended humour with tension in a stylised wartime setting. The cast included A Monaghan (James), E Boyle (Eliza), M Kerrigan (Grandad), Á Griffin (Chantelle), A McGee (Drunk), H Sharkey (Harriet), H Reilly (Megan), S Connolly Deane (Spy), A O’Connor (Julia), P O’Rourke Harty (Frances), S O’Neill Rice (Arthur), and C Burke as the Radio Voice.

The originality of the production was recognised with the Innovation and Creativity Award, marking a significant achievement for the ensemble. Additionally, Á Griffin received a nomination for Best Actor in a Supporting Role, reflecting the strength of individual performances within the group.

The second group presented 'Duck?!' by Bob Tucker, directed by S. Hughes. Supported by a strong production team, including stage managers S Ní Chonaill and S McAuley, costume and props designers E Fitzpatrick Ward, L Norman, and K MacMahon, and lighting and sound designers J Hebda and T McEvoy. The cast featured S Dunne (Malory), C Prendergast (Norton), C Taheny (Wid), S Lumley (Bill), L Nolan (Reg), E Williams Byrne (Sebastian), K Leavy (Hunter 1), J Hebda (Hunter 2), and L Curtin (Hunter 3).

The group achieved Second Place overall, an impressive result in a highly competitive lineup. C Prendergast was also nominated for Best Female Actor, further highlighting the calibre of performance.

Across both entries, Scoil Mhuire Trim demonstrated exceptional creativity and theatrical skill. Their success at this year’s Class Act competition underscores the school’s strong commitment to the performing arts and its ability to nurture emerging talent on a national stage. Scoil Mhuire Trim is a pilot school for the new leaving certificate Drama, Film and Theatre Studies.