Our History
Boyle has always had a rich tradition of musical talent, going back to the days of local operettas and concerts in the 1920s, up to the pantomimes presented by St. Joseph's Musical Society during 1950s, '60s and '70s. However, there had not been a regular musical or pantomime in the town since 1975.
The origins of Boyle Musical Society date back to January 1984, when local Bank of Ireland employees, Joan Tuohy, Belinda McCauley and Adrian Moore discussed the possibility of starting a Musical Society in Boyle.
They decided to place the following notice in the Roscommon Herald to see if there would be sufficient local interest in the idea.
A substantial number of people turned up at the meeting and it was agreed to form a Committee and organise a show, with a view to staging it in the late spring.Boyle Musical Society was born that night and the first committee was elected.
Our First Committee
Chairman - Liam O'Callaghan
Secretary - Joan Tuohy
Treasurers - Michael Gilmartin & Belinda McCauley
Public Relations Officer - Siobhán Moran
Musical Director - Sr. Richard
Committee Members:
Liam Cahill, Breda Dodd, Emma Dodd, Mardette Lynch, Mary Ryan, Jenny Sloan
The meeting discussed several show possibilities and it was eventually agreed that 'The White Horse Inn' would be the first production.
Liam O'Callaghan was appointed as show Director and Sr. Richard took on the role of Musical Director.
Rehearsals and casting commenced the following week and the show was staged in St. Joseph’s Hall over five nights from Sunday April 29th to May 6th 1984.
Below are some local press cuttings from that time.
Our Current Committee
Our committee is a voluntary one, gathering together a number of people who have the knowledge, skill and experience to produce a high quality and memorable show for Boyle Musical Society, every year.
Our goal is to create the best plan of action from the moment the show is chosen, through rehearsals, long after the curtain has fallen and to deliver a memorable and exciting experience for all involved. We are deeply indebted to you our audience and to the community and business people of Boyle for your continued support.
Boyle Musical Society was formed in 1984 and had not missed our annual production until 2020, 2021 and again this year in 2026.The Cast, Crew and Committee all look forward to seeing each other again for rehearsals in September 2027. We hope to see you there too!
Our Production Team
Vivienne Caldbeck Moran
Former cast member, Vivienne has been with the BMS production team since 2006 when she became Choreographer for 'Me & My Girl'. She subsequently took on the role of Director for 'The Producers' in 2012. Vivienne has a wealth of experience from her work with both schools and Musical Societies and she is Director and Choreographer for many.
Her warm personality, creative flair and mentoring strengths enable both the cast and crew to flourish in their roles. A native of Boyle, Vivienne studied in Cork where she graduated as a dance and drama teacher in 1995. Vivienne's vision and energy is a driving force for bringing each production to the stage and to our audiences.
Anne Kielty
Anne has been with BMS since 1986 when she joined as pianist for 'The Gypsy Baron', before taking over as Musical Director for 'Fiddler on the Roof' in 1998. She is also our rehearsal pianist and leads the orchestra during performances.
Anne has an abundance of experience in musical theatre and choral work. A Music Teacher at St. Nathy’s College, Ballaghderreen, Anne brings her teaching experience and love of music to Boyle Musical Society, working tirelessly with the soloists, chorus and orchestra to produce the best vocals, harmonies and music for the stage every year.
Committee Members
Chairperson - Rhona Mc Grath
Secretary - Laurina Brennan
Treasurer - Deirdre Purcell
Public Relations Officer - Brendan McGee
Ordinary Members:
Diarmuid Beirne, Nigel Cleary, Majella Gaffney, Siobhan Gallagher, Liz Gannon, Anne Kielty, Vivienne Moran.