Longford theatrical veteran John Kelly reprising the role of the Wizard 33 years later
St Mel’s Musical Society production in St Mel’s College Sports Hall, April 7 to 11
Fresh from his starring role in the recently sold out Voices of Longford variety show, back on stage again as The Wonderful Wizard of Oz is the veteran of the Longford theatrical scene, John Kelly, who played the same part in the St Mel’s Musical Society production of ‘The Wizard of Oz’ back in 1993.
When he performed the role of Monsignor O’Hara in ‘Sister Act’ in 2018, the longest serving ‘on stage’ member of St Mel’s Musical Society had the proud distinction of appearing in every production stretching right back to the revival in 1978.
With his marvellous stage presence, John is a very popular figure with the local audiences and he has played a wide variety of characters during his distinguished acting career in amateur theatre.
A very prestigious honour came his way in the 2003 production of ‘Hello Dolly’ when he was nominated for Best Supporting Actor in the Gilbert category for his superb performance in the role of Horace Vandergelder.
John received another nomination four years later, this time for the Spirit of AIMS Adjudicator’s Special Award in the Sullivan category for his excellence in the role of Andrew Carnes in the 2013 production of ‘Oklahoma!’
The St Mel’s Musical Society Honorary Life member was also on the short list for the AIMS Unsung Hero Award in 2001, mainly in recognition of his many years of hard work behind the scenes.
John has also enjoyed a long association with the local Backstage Theatre Group and Longford Variety Group and his comic timing is impeccable.