Prepare for a night of brilliance at St Mary's musical

The finishing touches are being put to the 2026 St Mary’s Secondary School musical in the all-girls state-of-the-art school campus in Ballina.

An 80-strong Transition Year cast is spear-heading this brand-new stage show, ably assisted by the Second Year and Fifth Year Chorus Line.

In a show that promises music, memories, dance and drama, '4Ever in Blue Jeans' is an original story set in Queens, New York City and spanning over a decade in the life of Jess Jackson.

When we first meet her, she is enjoying the heady days of the electric 1980s, but fast forward ten years and things have changed for Jess - she is now a newspaper reporter at The Daily Record in downtown NYC. She loves asking questions and is never without a trusty denim jacket and her brand-new accessory - her cell phone - living life very much in the present. But when one message catapults her back to her past, Jess is forced to ask some difficult questions - this time, of herself.

Meanwhile, Brad Miller is flying high and has a new accessory of his own - in the form of Cynthia; his well-to-do fiancée. His old guitar is gone, and he has traded in his jeans for chinos - ready to embrace high society life.

Jess and Brad are moving in very different directions - and social circles - until some big news brings them back together. Can they accept the people they've become, or are the echoes of the old rock ‘n’ roll days back in Sunnyside, Queens, too loud to ignore?

'4Ever in Blue Jeans' is a story of hope, heartbreak, rebellion and romance; and the sparks that can fly when the past and present collide. Prepare yourself for a night of brilliance – and maybe a bit of the blues!

Show-goers are invited to get in on the action too, and inspired by the title, can wear denim to really turn the clock back and feel part and parcel of the show. Those who wear denim will be automatically entered into the 'Best in Blue' competition with a chance to win some fantastic prizes.

A musical would be nothing without melody and song and Musical Director, Regina Deacy noted: "This stage show really is something a little bit different – it is edgy and has a retro feel. Every song tells this story, with Transition Years supported by the Second Year chorus line, and as always, we have lots of classics - which will have you singing along and maybe even dancing in the aisles!"

Also taking time out of rehearsals, Producer and Choreographer, Annette Leonard said: "This production is a brand-new musical, written and staged completely in-house. We started work on this script as soon as we wrapped up our last musical and between choreography, stage production and technology, it is one of our most ambitious shows to date. We are really excited to finally show off the hard work and talent of our students." 

Annette is ably assisted by Sharon Cullinane in the Choreography and Props Department, as well as Script Writer and Acting Director Anna Marie Henry and Acting Director Sinead Leonard.

“As has been our tradition, taking time to write an original musical has allowed us to create a story that reflects our students’ voice, energy and creativity. Seeing it come to life on stage has been incredibly rewarding,” noted Anna Marie.

The team also incorporates the talents of the Home Economics and Art Department, as well as an extensive backstage crew of staff and students. Caretakers Christy Donnelly and Martin Browne have also been on hand to design the stage – which is nothing short of breath-taking. The school administration staff have also been a huge support with Maria McMyler, Gabrielle Moyles and Amy Roche on hand with ticket sales.

Extending a warm welcome to all, Principal Mr Robert O'Reilly highlighted the long-running musical tradition of the school, and noted this is the 52nd annual musical; coming hot on the heels of the pink-inspired 'All Dolled Up' last year.

"As always, staff and students have come together to write, plan, produce and showcase this year's musical, which really is a highlight in our Transition Year programme. It is the culmination of an entire year of work. As always, we cannot wait to welcome the whole community to St Mary’s - and we are all looking forward to turning the school blue!” 

The 2026 musical '4Ever in Blue Jeans' takes place in the School Hall on Thursday and Friday, February 12 and 13, with performance at 7.30pm nightly. Raffle each night.

Tickets can be purchased through the box office ticket line on 096-70333. Adults €15 and Students/OAP €10