Ballinrobe to stage musical drama based on Michael Collins
At the launch of Ballinrobe Musical Society's 2026 production of ‘Michael Collins - A Musical Drama’ in Ballinrobe Racecourse were, from left: Queen of The Lakes host Alan Murphy, Ballinrobe Musical Society vice-chairman Des Treacy and Ballinrobe Musical Society secretary Emma Loscher.
Ballinrobe Musical Society is to stage a musical drama based on the life of one of Ireland’s best-known political figures. ‘Michael Collins – A Musical Drama’ will be taken to the stage by the renowned South Mayo players next year, from April 5-11, 2026. In fact, their opening performance of ‘Michael Collins’ will take place on Easter Sunday, coinciding with the 110th anniversary of the Easter Rising.
The brainchild of the late Bryan Flynn, ‘Michael Collins’ portrays the life of the legendary military and political leader from West Cork through a soaring, rousing, chorus-driven soundtrack.
The story portrays Ireland’s turbulent revolutionary years through the eyes of Collins, starting with the 1916 Rising, tracing his role in the War of Independence and Civil War, and culminating in his assassination at Béal na Bláth at the age of 31.
Ballinrobe Musical Society’s staging of ‘Michael Collins’ comes after it received two nominations – Best Female Singer and Best Chorus – at the annual AIMS awards for their production of The Hunchback of Notre Dame, which had a cast of over 70 people.
“We feel this show will play to all our strengths as a society,” said Ballinrobe Musical Society PRO, Oisín McGovern, following the launch of the show at the Queen of the Lakes Festival at Ballinrobe Racecourse.
“We are truly honoured to be given the privilege of bringing this epic show to the West of Ireland. This show is a remarkable piece of musical theatre with a rousing score and a gripping plot revolving around one of Ireland’s greatest-ever leaders."
The musical is one that the society believes will entertain audiences of all ages – and they have extended their sincere thanks to Julie Anne Collins, principal of Ballinrobe Community School, for allowing them to continue using the school for performances and rehearsals.
“Without the school’s generosity and cooperation, there simply would be no show in Ballinrobe. For this, we extend a sincere thanks to Ms Julie Anne Collins and wish all the school staff and students the very best in all their endeavours,” said McGovern.
Ballinrobe Musical Society’s 2026 show sees the return of their production team of Alan Greaney (Director), Shane Farrell (Musical Director), Aoife McClafferty (Choreographer) and Ken McCarthy (Stage Manager).
Greaney, who performed on stage with the society in 2011, will be directing his third show with Ballinrobe Musical Society, while Aoife McClafferty returns as choreographer for a seventeenth time.
“I love working with this society as they exude heart, community, and kindness,” remarked Ms McClafferty, who has been involved with the society since 2007.
“Ballinrobe Musical Society are renowned for producing stellar shows, and that is down to the incredible work of all involved. Everyone comes on board in Ballinrobe, and it is one of the highlights of the year in the town.”
Ms McClafferty, who has directed and choreographed with musical societies across the West of Ireland, said ‘Michael Collins’ was ‘an excellent choice’.
“It is steeped in history and is full of heart and emotion. It encompasses a fabulous cast and a huge chorus. I hope everyone enjoys this spectacular dramatisation of a changing period in Ireland’s history,” she said.
“It is a story which tells of the emergence of the Irish nation, interwoven in music, song, and emotion. It is a musical treat and moving on every level.”
Shane Farrell also expressed delight at being asked to return as musical director, describing the Michael Collins musical as the “Irish Lés Miserables” and a perfect for Ballinrobe.
“This show is a big sing, and Ballinrobe Musical Society are a big singing society. There are some truly epic numbers in this show, such as ‘Fly The Flag of Freedom’ and ‘Every Heart Awaken’. I think audiences are going to absolutely love this show.” Information about auditions for the show and how to join the society will be published in the coming weeks.
“We thank all our sponsors, patrons and volunteers, who every year are so giving of their time and support,” commented Oisin McGovern, adding: “There would be no show without them, and we thank them from the bottom of our hearts.”
