Mayfield students to take to the stage at Cork Opera House

STUDENTS with educational needs from St Killian’s Special School in Mayfield will be taking to the stage at the Cork Opera House Christmas concert on Monday, December 18.

The 20 pupils will showcase their singing and performing talents. The school is known for nurturing students with specific educational needs, including dyslexia, dyspraxia, speech-and-language disorders, autism, and complex needs.

The Christmas concert, an annual event at Cork Opera House, is famous for featuring some of Ireland’s most talented singers and musicians. The inclusion of St Killian’s students adds a special dimension to the festivities.

“We are thrilled to welcome the students of St Killian’s Special School to our Christmas concert,” said Eibhlín Gleeson, CEO of Cork Opera House. 

“Their participation embodies the spirit of community and inclusivity that we cherish. They are a wonderful choir from an incredibly important school in our city and we are proud and delighted to include them in our legendary Christmas Concert.”

Sue Lenihan, principal of St Killian’s, said: “St Killian’s is not just a school; it’s a beacon of hope and achievement for our children. Seeing our students perform at the Cork Opera House is a testament to their incredible resilience and talent. This event is not only a celebration of Christmas, but also of the extraordinary capabilities of our pupils,” Ms Lenihan added.

The students will be joined on stage by the Cork Opera House Concert Orchestra and supported by staff and teachers. They will be accompanied by soul singer Karen Underwood.

This year’s concert will feature a mix of popular Christmas hits, choral numbers, and carols.

In addition to the performances by St Killian’s pupils, patrons can look forward to appearances by the Cork Opera House Concert Orchestra, Laoise Leahy, Cara O’Sullivan Associate Artists, and the award-winning MTU Glór Choral Society.