13/10/2026
From the School Musical to The Hired Man
Congratulations to CBC students Patrick McDonnell and Evan Kwong on their performances in The Hired Man with Kilkenny Musical Society at the Watergate Theatre last week! Having seen both students thrive in last year’s school musical, it was a pleasure to watch them take this next step. Your correspondent thoroughly enjoyed the production and, after the run ended, sat down with them to hear about their experiences.
For both students, the school musical had been an important starting point. Patrick recalled the excitement of performing his solo on the final night, with family who had travelled from Cork in the audience. For Evan, the final applause and the satisfaction of hitting his best notes stood out. Both had also made new friends and gained something that would prove invaluable: greater confidence. Patrick felt more comfortable performing in front of an audience of around 300, while Evan had grown more confident singing in public.
Joining the cast of The Hired Man brought a fresh set of challenges. Patrick initially found it daunting to join a predominantly adult cast without familiar faces. Evan highlighted the intensity of the six-week rehearsal period and the commitment required to balance it with Fifth Year schoolwork. However, he also valued being treated as an equal on stage. Both praised the patience and support of the creative team in helping them develop their performances.
The attention to detail made a real impression. Patrick remembered how even shoes were checked to ensure they did not look too modern for the production, while Evan noted the feedback given after performances. Behind the scenes, quick costume changes in a confined space could be stressful, but Patrick found that skills developed during the school musical had already helped him rise to the challenge.
There were plenty of highlights on stage, too. Patrick particularly enjoyed the lively union song, with conversations woven into the number, while Evan loved the final song that brought everyone together on stage. Looking back, Evan was proud of the work he had put into learning the script and of the audience’s applause at the end. For Patrick, a particular source of pride was building on his school musical experience and having the confidence to take this next step.
Neither sees this as the end of the journey. Evan hopes to continue performing as a hobby, perhaps through a club or society at university. Patrick would love to try drama and explore a different kind of performance.
Their advice to fellow students thinking about taking part in a school musical? Patrick encouraged them to give it their all from the beginning and believe in themselves. Evan felt that the first audition was the hardest hurdle, but once that was behind him, he discovered how enjoyable the experience could be. For both, the school musical was a highlight of Transition Year.
Well done to both lads on embracing a new challenge and building on their talents. It was a pleasure to see them perform and hear first-hand how the school musical helped open the door to new opportunities.
