Letter from Catherine Connolly acknowledged the enduring contribution of Kells Musical and Dramatic Society to cultural life of Kells

In a town where the annual pantomime is as much a part of the calendar as Christmas lights and St Patrick’s Day parades, Kells Musical and Dramatic Society has received a rare and significant honour.

As the society wrapped up its 49th consecutive pantomime, it has been formally commended by President Catherine Connolly in recognition of nearly half a century of voluntary service to the community.

A letter, issued on 9th February on behalf of the President, acknowledges not only this year’s production of Pinocchio but the enduring contribution the society has made to cultural life in Kells.

The commendation was presented locally by local peace commissioner, Cormac Corr, who approached the Office of the President in advance of the milestone year.

The framed correspondence was formally handed to long serving chairman,John Grant, himself singled out in the President’s message, for his leadership and commitment.

In her letter, President Connolly congratulated the society on bringing its 49th pantomime to the stage and paid tribute to the “deeply committed group of volunteers” who have sustained it over decades. She described the organisation as a cornerstone of the Kells community, fostering confidence, performance skills and a strong sense of belonging among its members.

The acknowledgement also referenced what has been described locally as a challenging year for the society, commending members for their resolve in ensuring that the production would proceed and succeed. It was a nod not just to theatrical effort but to civic resilience.

For chairman John Grant, the recognition carried particular weight. In a public message of thanks, he praised Corr for taking the initiative to secure the presidential letter and described the gesture as a meaningful endorsement of the voluntary work carried out by the society over five decades.

Yet while the framed commendation now takes pride of place, the real story remains on the stage.

This year’s production of Pinocchio continued that tradition - delivering the spectacle audiences expect, from lively musical numbers to larger than life characters and the customary audience participation that has become a hallmark of the Kells panto.