Derry school wins major drama award for unique take on The Wizard of Oz

A Derry school has won a major drama award for its unique take on The Wizard of Oz.

Gaelscoil Éadain Mhóir returned from the Irish Schools Drama Festival in Omagh ‘weighed down with prizes’ after their Primary 3, 4 and 5 children put on an impressive performance of the famous musical.

Principal Mary Nic Ailín said there was great excitement and pride at the school for their wonderful achievements.

“All 43 children in Rang 3, 4, 5 took part in our drama ‘An Draíodóir Ghaelach’ which was a clever twist on the Wizard of Oz,” she said.

“The story is based on a little girl called Duailtín who has lost her way for a while from home but throughout the drama she learns a very important lesson that home is where we have our friends, our culture and our native language can be heard every day.”

The children showcased their talents on Monday morning at Gaelscoil Éadain Mhóir in a special performance of the drama for staff and parents.

Two pupils were also selected for individual prizes at the drama festival and the play was nominated to perform in the Ulster Final.

“Róise Ní Mhaoláin and Daire O Greavu Ó Mocháin were both nominated for individual prizes as best actress and actor,” said Ms Nic Ailín.

“The children came home with the prize for best musical theatre and were delighted to be awarded the overall prize of best performance.

“They have now been nominated to represent the north west in the Ulster Final which will take place in Armagh City on March 23rd and 24th.”

Mary Nic Ailín said they were ‘extremely proud’ of the children who had given their first performance in front of a packed theatre.

“The adjudicator of the competition, Sean O Labhraí, commented on the children's excellent acting, their outstanding singing and the overall stage presence including costumes and delivery,” she said.

Ms Nic Ailín also thanked everyone who had made the drama such a success.

“I would like to thank the staff for all of the work they have put in to preparing the children,” she said.

“Without their hard work and dedication our pupils would not have the skills needed to be able to participate so confidently.

“I would like to congratulate the children on their outstanding performance.

“We are so proud of each and every one of them and are so looking forward to seeing them perform in Armagh.”

She added: “Every parent of our pupils should be beaming with pride at how amazing their children are.”