Chairperson Hosts Awards Reception

Chairperson Hosts Awards Reception

On Thursday 1 September, Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Gillian Fitzpatrick hosted a reception at the Down Arts Centre to honour the achievements of a number of citizens of the district.

The first to be congratulated by Councillor Fitzpatrick were Emma Nugent, Fergal White and St Patrick’s Coral Society, who all were recently named winners of the Association of Irish Musical Society Awards. Emma was named Best Actress for her performance as Violet Newstead in the Glees Musical, ‘9 to 5’. Fergal won Best Supporting Actor in ‘Sunset Boulevard’. He played the role of butler, Max von-Mayerling. Fergal has amazing acting ability and is a much sought after Tenor. Fergal is also a Member of St. Patrick’s Choral Society who won an Association of Irish Musical Societies Award for the best technical production of Sunset Boulevard. St Patrick’s Choral Society was founded in 1962 for the purpose of performing awards and musicals. The Society has gone from strength to strength, playing to packed audiences and has a very vibrant Youth Theatre.

Julie Brady and Erin Coghlan were recently named the Senior World Tap Champion Duet after a stunning performance showcasing their world class steps in the World Cup in Jersey. Erin and Julie have been dancing from a very early age with Morgan Dance and Theatre Arts taking classes in ballet, modern and tap. They have competed in numerous festivals, performed in many musicals, choreographed various shows and have won numerous awards in recognition of their superb dancing skills. 

Also honoured at the event was Dundrum Coastal Rowing Club who were recently crowned Skiffies Worlds Champions. Dundrum Rowing Club won out against 50 ‘Skiffs’ and 1000 international participants from the Netherlands, Tasmania, USA, Scotland, Wales and Ireland to take the title of Skiffie World Champion 2016.

Newry, Mourne and Down District Chairperson, Councillor Gillian Fitzpatrick  expressed her pride and delight at the winners’ achievements saying, “I am delighted to host you this evening to celebrate each of your outstanding achievements, in such a diverse range of accomplishments. The Council and our community are very proud of each and every one of you. All of you have shown talent, dedication and commitment in becoming the winners I am proud to honour this evening. You have made many sacrifices to maximise your talents and grow in expertise and thoroughly deserve your success.”