Gareth cast in star role of Broadway production

Gareth cast in star role of Broadway production

21 March 2018

A LOCAL actor and musician has been cast in one of the leading roles of a new production by St Agnes’ Choral Society.

Gareth McGreevy is taking on the role of Billy Lawlor in the iconic Broadway musical, 42nd Street.

Billy is the leading man in the ‘show within a show’, which will call on all of Gareth’s song and dance skills.

“When cast in the role of Billy Lawlor, I was excited yet extremely apprehensive as I knew the amount of tap dancing involved within the show,” he said. 

Not afraid of hard work, however, Gareth has been polishing up on his footwork and working diligently with his fellow cast members to bring the show to performance standard.  

“To say this role has been a challenge would be an understatement but I think that when people come to see the show they will be surprised at what has been achieved by our wonderful company and in such a short space of time,” he said.

Gareth, who is no stranger to the stage, has performed and acted as musical director with St Patrick’s Choral Society and Newcastle Glee Singers in previous years.

His most recent artistic venture was Musical Director for Newcastle Glee Singers’ production of Sister Act, which played to great reviews last month in the Annesley Hall Newcastle.

Having won the All-Ireland Ballad Group title in Scor in 2016 for Saul GAC, Gareth has since enjoyed many memorable feats, including singing to over 80,000 at the All Ireland hurling final at Croke Park. 

“Playing in Croke Park was extremely exciting and while a little nervous, I had been singing in Scor for over 16 years so it came naturally,” he added. “Tap dancing, however, and doing so solo, in the Grand Opera House is going to be a little different.”

Featuring the iconic songs 42nd Street, We’re In The Money and Lullaby of Broadway, there are many memorable musical numbers from this popular show.

The story focuses on young Peggy Sawyer, who is fresh off the bus from small-town America and just another face in the chorus line on Broadway’s newest show. But when the leading lady gets injured, Peggy might just have the shot at stardom she’s always dreamed of.

Tickets for 42nd Street are available by contacting the Grand Opera House box office or booking online. The show will run between April 10-14.