New musical lives up to its promise

A NEW Irish musical made a big impression with local audiences when it opened this year’s Swords Summer Festival.

‘The Promise’ was staged in the magnificent setting of Swords Castle, as part of Fingal County Council’s Creative Ireland programme.

The sound of muskets was heard once again, within the splendidly restored castle as the audience was treated to a night of enthralling music and high drama. 

The cast of 10 actors/singers, accompanied by a six-piece orchestra and supported by a 20-strong choir, rose to the occasion.

The excellent singing of some truly inspiring songs such as

‘Come Men of Erin’ and

‘Across Blue Waters’ kept the audience engaged and, as the musical came to a close, the cast were given a long standing ovation.

Written by local man Paul Redmond and directed by multi-award winning director Noel McDonagh,

‘The Promise’ is a tale of intertwined love stories, mixed with betrayal, revenge and reconciliation, set in early 19th century Ireland. 

It takes some of its inspiration from the final battle on the east coast of Ireland of the United Irishmen at Drishoge in north county Dublin in 1798.

Paul Redmond said he was delighted with the response to the production from the  Swords audience. 

“‘The Promise’ has been a brilliant project to work on,

? said Mr Redmond. 

“Everyone involved in the production greatly appreciates the continued support of Fingal County Council.

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