Susan Boyle 28/4/2012

Dreamed a Dream: The Susan Boyle Story On Saturday last a group of our BARA went to the Bord Gáis Energy Theatre, Dublin to see the musical “The Susan Boyle Story”. It was absolutely wonderful. It has a brillant cast and the sound, props and lighting were superb. The whole life story of Susan is portrayed beautifully throughout the musical. Susan’s character is played by Elaine Smith. The singing and dancing is unbelievable. At the end of the show, when we thought the show was over, the announcer said “Ladies and Gentlemen, please welcome Susan Boyle!”. There she was, just as we had seen her on television, wearing a green dress and singing the famous “I Dreamed a Dream” from “Les Miserables” (and from “Britain's Got Talent!). She received several standing ovations. This show was enjoyed by one and all. Bridie Loughman

Kerry April 2012 Ballingarry House

Our Trip to Kerry, April 2012 Our Spring break from 15th – 19th April was to Tralee in the beautiful Co Kerry. We travelled in style – all 58 of us- courtesy of Rose Travel, Tralee. Their drivers, with all their local knowledge ,provided us with many good stories along the way and made our journeys more interesting. The four nights in the 4*Ballygarry House Hotel and Spa were most enjoyable and relaxing. The Sauna, Steam room and outdoor Hot Tub and all the other facilities helped to spoil and pamper us. A great experience with the rain coming down.! Our first day trip took us to the scenic Killarney. Unfortunately, the cold and damp weather spoiled our enjoyment of our visit to Muckross House and gardens. We visited the Moriarty Industry at the foot of the McGillicuddy Reeks where we enjoyed a beautiful DVD of the Flora and Fauna of The Gap and magnificent views of Co. Kerry. The trip to Slea Head on the Dingle peninsula was breathtaking. The driver’s skill was tested to the limit as he negotiated the many twists and sharp bends on the road. The Kerry County Museum Audio Visual brought to life the story of Kerry from the earliest times to the present day. It took us back to our roots, reminding us of real poverty borne by our forefathers and letting us see how well off we are today in Ireland. We were sad to say goodbye to Miriam and all the cheerful and courteous staff of Ballygarry House Hotel. On our way home we enjoyed a delicious meal in the Meadow Court Hotel in Loughrea . It was a nice ending to a most happy and relaxing time. Our thanks and gratitude to Chris O’Flynn and Bridie Whelan – our Secretary and Treasurer – for the time and organisation they put in to preparing our trip. Sr. Tony. Photos of Kerry from bus by Doug.People photos by Christina o'Flynn

"Da" Town Hall Theatre Galway

Last night April 11th 2012 we attended the Town Hall Theatre, Galway to see the award- winning play “Da”. This is Hugh Leonard’s most well-known play and reflects many aspects of his own life. Set in Dublin in the 1960s it explores the father – son relationship in a poignant and funny portrayal. The play sees the return to Dalkey of Charlie from London on the sad occasion of his adoptive Da’s funeral. While sorting out all of Da’s things in his old home, his Da’s ghost appears and refuses to leave or stop talking to him. He is reminded of all his past, of his Mam and of the many tender and wonderful periods of his life with his Da. We all can see our own Da in this play. There is a special tender moment when Charlie discovers that Da has saved all the money sent to him by Charlie intended for Da’s own use but which Da has put away into a bank account for Charlie. This play has tears and laughter and has won many awards. The Galway cast were outstanding. Michael Rooney played the lead and the whole production was directed by our own BARA member, the very capable John Boland. I could see this play over and over again. Bridie Loughman

Visit to Leinster House

SORRY FOR PROVIDING WRONG INFORMATION AT THE APRIL MONTHLY MEETING.

THE INVITE IS ONLY TO THE BRAVE FOLKS WHO PARTICIPATED IN THE PARADE

DOUGLAS

A Chara

I want to commend you and all the participants from your organisation on your wonderful contribution to this year’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade and I further want to congratulate you on winning a much deserved prize.

To recognise your contribution to Ballinasloe community life I would like to invite you and all the participants involved to visit Leinster House at a time that is suitable to you.

Lorraine Higgins