Newry Arts Community Pays Special Tribute to Charlie Smyth

The Newry Arts Community came together on 9 May for a special tribute to the late Charlie Smyth, celebrating his life and legacy.

The variety showcase event was one of the last to be staged at Newry Town Hall before it closes for refurbishment and connection to a new theatre and conference centre planned for the heart of the City.

The celebration event featured an array of local talent including The Bosco Youth Group, Newpoint Players, Newry Musical Feis, Newry Musical Society, Newry Panto Players and The Choir Studio, with live music, rotating pianists and a journey through the Wizard of Oz and Panto classics.

Charlie sadly passed away last November aged 92 with his remarkable journey beginning on the stage at Newry Town Hall when he was just seven years old.

Newry Arts Community was thrilled to join forces for the variety showcase event in tribute to Charlie, celebrating a life of talent and legacy through music, drama and dance. All proceeds from event went to the Evora Hospice.

Over eight decades, Charlie became the heartbeat of local theatre, serving as a performer, producer and he was also President of Newry Musical Society as well as the driving force behind Newry Panto Players.

Known for his impeccable comedic timing, his skill at the piano and his unwavering support for young talent, Charlie didn’t just put on shows, he built a community.

The variety showcase was the local arts community’s way of saying “thank you” to the man who ensured the show always went on, with the celebration of his life and immeasurable contribution to the arts a poignant evening, given the impending closure of the Town Hall ahead of the new theatre build.

The celebration evening was one of the final events in the historic venue, marking both the end of an era and an exciting new beginning for the local creative scene. From 14 to 16 May, Newry Youth Performing Arts will be performing School of Rock, with tickets available via ticketsource.co.uk/NYPA. On 24 May there will be a Choir Studio Performance.