The Take2 Annual Show: "We Go Together" on May 3rd & 4th at Pavilion Theatre, Dun Laoghaire

Our annual Take2 Performing Arts School showcase is scheduled for May 3rd and 4th at the Pavilion Theatre in Dun Laoghaire. After a year of dedicated rehearsals, our students are eager to perform and demonstrate their talents on stage.

Behind the Scenes: Preparing for the Annual Show

Our students have dance routines, song lyrics, scripted scenes & filmed scenes to learn. This is only the first step, however, as a LOT goes on behind the scenes. The journey to our annual performance is extensive and involves months of preparation before the show.

Script Development and Theme Selection

Preparation begins in August with scriptwriting and selecting musicals that align with our students' strengths and the chosen theme. This year's show, titled "We Go Together," centers on the theme of friendship, reflecting the strong bonds formed among our students.

Involving Student Interests

Responding to our students' enthusiasm for Taylor Swift, we integrated a dedicated dance section featuring her music. The concept of friendship bracelets, popular among Swift's fans, inspired our show's poster design and added a personal touch to our promotional materials.

Featured Musicals and Performances

Our 2025 lineup includes scenes and music from:​

• Annie​

• Bugsy Malone​

• Legally Blonde​

• Grease (featuring the finale song "We Go Together")

Additionally, a special "Friendship" segment will showcase songs celebrating camaraderie, including the iconic "I'll Be There for You" from the Friends TV show and "With a Little Help from My Friends" by The Beatles.

Casting and Rehearsals

Early in the year, we conduct auditions to assign roles, ensuring that every student who auditions is given an opportunity to participate. While some students prefer ensemble roles, others take on specific characters, contributing to a diverse and inclusive performance.

Costume Coordination

Managing costumes is a substantial task, with each student requiring at least four different outfits. Organising these changes demands some serious planning to ensure seamless transitions during the show.

The Technical Arrangements

Securing sound and lighting professionals is crucial. We are fortunate to collaborate with experienced engineers like Cian Murphy (sound) and Cathal Donohoe (lighting).

Our longstanding relationship with the Pavilion Theatre, our venue for the past 13 years, allows us to book well in advance, ensuring a familiar and supportive environment for our performances.

Incorporating Film Elements

To enhance our students' acting skills, we include filmed scenes in the show. Drama teacher and alumna Aifric coordinates these segments, providing students with experience in both stage and on-camera acting. This year, past pupil and budding director Oscar Lewins, currently studying TV Production at IADT, contributed his expertise to our film projects.

Microphone and Sound Planning

Coordinating approximately 15 radio microphones involves detailed scheduling to ensure smooth operation. Our sound engineer collaborates with us weeks before the show to pre-record tracks, allowing students to perform with their own voices, enhancing the overall sound quality.​

Track Editing and Show Calling

Editing musical tracks is vital for a cohesive performance. Shauna, our singing instructor and a professional casting director at SG Casting, manages this aspect. She also serves as the show caller, overseeing cues and ensuring the production runs seamlessly from behind the scenes.

Additional Support and Choreography

A dedicated backstage crew, including Pavilion Theatre staff and volunteer chaperones, assists with costume changes and ensures students are prepared for their scenes. Their support is invaluable in maintaining the flow and professionalism of the show.

Designing our Show Programs

Creating the show program involves assembling headshots of each student, the running order, event photos from the year, and biographies of the Take2 team. This compilation serves as a cherished keepsake for performers and attendees alike.

Experience the Magic and Join Us at "We Go Together"!

We invite you to witness the culmination of our students' hard work and dedication at the Pavilion Theatre on May 3rd and 4th. Experience the magic of musical theatre and celebrate the friendships that make Take2 Performing Arts School a nurturing and inspiring community.

Get Your Tickets Here