The resounding success of the “The Sleeping Beauty” performances at the Theatre Royal in Limerick led to an additional evening’s show due to popular demand. The production was met with immense appreciation and admiration, especially considering the sizable attendance on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday nights. The repeat on Saturday evening was no exception, drawing a large and captivated audience. A standout feature was the remarkable appearance of Madame Heller, who recently returned from a highly successful tour in America alongside members of the Irish Ladies’ Choir. Her renditions of “Kathleen Mavourneen” and “The Minstrel Boy” resonated profoundly with the crowd.
During the Friday evening show, Rev Father Cregan addressed the audience, expressing his desire to showcase the musical talents of the girls of Limerick. He noted that the city had long been reputed for its musical prowess, and the girls on stage in the pantomime exemplified the best of the city’s musical taste and abilities. St. Ita’s House deserved the city’s pride, and the young performers demonstrated their capacity to uphold Limerick’s musical legacy wherever they ventured.
Father Cregan paid heartfelt commendations to Mr C.K. Irwin for his diligent and determined efforts in training the girls. Mr Irwin, driven by a genuine desire to nurture their musical talents, had worked diligently. The presented performance was the pinnacle of his dedication. Father Cregan concluded by expressing profound gratitude to the citizens for their enthusiastic attendance each night, the orchestra members, and all those who contributed to the outstanding success of the performances.
Amidst a chorus of applause, Father Cregan took his leave. To address the demand for copies of our critique on “The Sleeping Beauty,” we are republishing the report that appeared in our previous Friday’s edition, as per numerous requests.
Limerick Echo – Tuesday 20 February 1906