Mayo composer's work, Fáinne Óir, is a Broadway success

MAYO composer Kathy Fahey has enjoyed a hit on New York's famed Broadway with her widely-acclaimed musical, Fàinne Òir.

The show received an enthusiastic reception when it was staged at a packed the Symphony Space Theatre in the city.

It tells the story, in music, song and dance, of a Mayo family forced to emigrate during the years of the Great Famine.

On stage with director Kathy Fahey were members of Mayo Concert Orchestra, the Vox Fusion Choir and a group of talented dancers led by choreographer Ciara Sexton of Riverdance fame.

The story was narrated by Sarah Lafferty and its happy ending drew a standing ovation from the audience.

The wonderful backdrop was the work of Achill artist Padraig McCaul and members of the back-stage crew travelling from Mayo from the US premiere.

The attendance included Deputy Ciaràn Cannon, Minister of State for the Irish Diaspora and International Development, the cathaoirleach of Mayo County Council, Councillor Brendan Mulroy, and Peter Hynes, chief executive of Mayo County Council.

A special guest was Jazmin Grace Grimaldi, a grand-daughter of Prince Grace of Monaco, who enjoyed the extravaganza.

A presentation was made to her by Kathy Fahey and Mike Hannon, co-producers.

Speaking afterwards, Ms. Fahey said she was honoured by the great reception the show received on both its world premiere and US premiere over the past week.

She thanked her dedicated team who have been working so hard behind the scenes since the start of the year as well as all those who have supported the show in any way to date and contributed to its success.

The Fàinne Òir team is due to return from the US tomorrow morning.

The next confirmed show is UL, Limerick, on October 26.