The Musical Gala at Newbridge: Hoo-Hah and Hilarity for a Good Cause!
Well, gather ‘round, my friends! If you thought your last night out was a party, wait until you hear about the musical gala night held by the Newbridge Family Resource Centre (FRC). It was a jamboree, a hootenanny, and dare I say, a downright knee-slapper of an event held at the illustrious Keadeen Hotel—because where else would you have a gala night that doesn’t involve at least one person spilling a drink?!
This shindig wasn’t just for a good giggle (though there were plenty), but for an outstanding cause: raising funds for a new building extension at the centre. Yes, that’s right! They were raising money to create a community space that will probably end up being more popular than the last season of *The Crown*. And speaking of the crowd, over 200 fabulous folks turned out. That’s right—more people than I’ve seen being served at the pub on a Friday night!
Ellen Duggan, the boss lady of Newbridge FRC and quite possibly the most enthusiastic person since a kid saw the candy aisle, said, “Everybody that was involved on the night got a really good buzz from it – it was phenomenal.” If I didn’t know better, I’d say she was mixing fundraising with a bit of a rave! And who wouldn’t? With the entire community pulling together, they’re set to create something extraordinary instead of just sitting around complaining about the weather.
And what’s a gala night without a quick nod to the local businesses? A big spankin’ shout-out went to the Keadeen Hotel for not only donating the venue but also for contributing spot prizes that, let’s be honest, are probably better than anything you’d ever win on a quiz night. They must have emptied their entire supplies of tea and biscuits for this one!
But wait, there’s more! The musical gala wasn’t just a parade of togetherness; it featured an ensemble cast of local stars like Johnny Peters, Lorraine Nolan, and yes, even the Naas Gospel Choir. I mean, with that lineup, it sounds like they could have gone straight to the Olympic Choir Games and brought home the gold! They cranked out tunes so lovely, you’d think they had a choir of angels waiting in the wings.
And there’s no time for resting on one’s laurels. Ellen and her merry team are already plotting next year’s gala—because let’s face it, why take a break when you can have another reason to throw a night out, eh? With 40 years under their belt, the Newbridge FRC is as essential to the community as tea is to a British breakfast or cheerful banter is to a night at the pub.
Whether it’s preschool, youth groups, or social gatherings for the gents and ladies, Newbridge FRC has been doing more for the community than a free sample at a supermarket. So, lift your glasses (or teacups, if you’re feeling proper), and toast to a community that knows how to have a jolly good time while supporting a fantastic cause!
Bravo, Newbridge! Keep Calm and Fundraise On!
This HTML-formatted commentary is a lively recap of the musical gala event held by the Newbridge Family Resource Centre, complete with a cheeky tone and engaging details that resonate with readers seeking to support their community while having a giggle.
THE COMMUNITY of Newbridge came together in impressive numbers to show their unwavering support for the recent musical gala night organized by the Newbridge Family Resource Centre. Held at the elegant Keadeen Hotel, the event aimed to raise essential funds for the centre’s new building extension, which is set to create a vital space for community engagement and activities in Newbridge. The funds raised during this delightful evening will directly contribute to the enhancement of the Newbridge Family Resource Centre’s facilities and the spectrum of services it offers to local residents.
Ellen Duggan, the passionate manager of Newbridge FRC, expressed her excitement about the event, stating, “Everybody that was involved on the night got a really good buzz from it – it was phenomenal. We had a really great turnout at the fundraiser, with over 200 members of the community there, along with the amazing artists performing for the gala. We’re delighted with the funds raised and the spot prizes donated by local businesses and members of the community.” She specifically acknowledged the generosity of the Keadeen Hotel, which not only provided the beautiful venue but also contributed spot prizes for the event.
After the resounding success of last week’s gala, Newbridge FRC has already set plans in motion for the next year’s fundraising event, eager to build on this momentum and continue serving the community.
The musical gala delivered an evening brimming with entertainment, featuring a lineup of talented musical guests, including Johnny Peters, Lorraine Nolan, Phillip English, Bernie Heaney, Ray Cox, Derek Dunne, Sarah Burke, Paul McCormack, Seas Suas, Emily O’Sullivan, Rachel Burke, Mairead Carroll, and the vibrant Leah Morgan’s Stage School, captivating the audience throughout the night.
Newbridge FRC has been an unwavering cornerstone of the community for the past 40 years, providing vital services and support across the Newbridge area. It offers a diverse array of programmes, including a preschool and homework club, youth groups, as well as social groups tailored for men and women, reinforcing its role as a lifeline for many residents.
**Interview with Ellen Duggan, Manager of the Newbridge Family Resource Centre**
*Interview conducted by our dedicated reporter at the Newbridge Musical Gala Fundraiser*
**Reporter:** Ellen, thank you for joining us today! The musical gala last night sounded like an incredible success. Can you tell us about the atmosphere in the room?
**Ellen Duggan:** It was absolutely phenomenal! The energy was electric—people were laughing, singing, and just having a great time. You could really feel the community spirit; everyone came together for a common cause.
**Reporter:** Speaking of the cause, how important is this new building extension for Newbridge?
**Ellen Duggan:** It’s tremendously important! The funds raised will help us create a new community space that can accommodate various groups and activities, benefiting everyone from preschoolers to seniors. It’s a space where people can connect, learn, and support each other.
**Reporter:** Over 200 attendees turned out for the event! What does that number mean to you as the manager of the centre?
**Ellen Duggan:** It means everything! It shows that our community values the work we do. The support from local businesses and residents is heartwarming. It truly feels like we’re all pulling together to create something meaningful.
**Reporter:** The lineup of performers like Johnny Peters and Lorraine Nolan sounded fantastic! Did you have a favorite moment from the night?
**Ellen Duggan:** Oh, it’s tough to choose! But seeing our local talents come together—especially the Naas Gospel Choir—was magical. Their voices truly lifted the room. And of course, Juliette singing ‘Tomorrow’ brought the house down!
**Reporter:** What’s next for the Newbridge Family Resource Centre following this successful event?
**Ellen Duggan:** We’re already brainstorming for next year’s gala! Fundraising doesn’t stop here; we have so many ideas for events and initiatives to continue engaging our community. We’re excited to build upon this momentum!
**Reporter:** Before we wrap up, any last words you’d like to share with our readers?
**Ellen Duggan:** Just a huge thank you to everyone who supported this event and to those who continue to support the Newbridge Family Resource Centre. Together, we’re not just fundraising; we’re building a stronger community!
**Reporter:** Thank you for your time, Ellen, and congratulations on a wonderful evening! We look forward to supporting your future endeavors.
**Ellen Duggan:** Thank you! Let’s keep the energy going and continue making a positive impact together!
