Cork prepares for the return of the popular Summer Revels

CORK Opera House opened its doors on Friday night to welcome a host of performers to showcase their talents with a spot in this year’s Summer Revels up for grabs.

Over 20 different groups and acts took to the stage in front of the show’s directors and producers with their hopes high of making it back to the stage this July during the Summer Revels three-week run.

From large dance groups, to choirs, acrobats, trapeze artists, magicians and local Cork rappers, the variety of performers was an indication of what is in store when the Summer Revels hits the stage on July 24.

Hit

The Summer Revels was a huge hit in Cork during the 1970s and 1980s, with sold-out shows running for weeks every summer and bringing joy to thousands of Leesiders over the years.

CEO and artistic director of the Opera House, Eibhlín Gleeson, said: “Our interpretation of Summer Revels is a Revels for 2024. It is a version of the Revels that many people know, but it is definitely a new version.”

“We were delighted with the response to our public call out for acts,” says co-director, Killian Collins, “and wish everyone the best of luck with their performances. It’s a great privilege for artists to come and perform on the Opera House stage and we hope that it will be the first time of many for our artists here today. Summer Revels is all about joy and we’re really excited to share this brand-new musical theatre production with audiences this summer.”

Comedy characters

The show will feature hilarious new comedy characters developed especially for the Summer Revels - bringing musical theatre, comedy, dance, and fun together for one big variety performance.

Professional auditions for the show have already been held with an announcement on its cast due in April, who will join the chosen Corkonians on stage this summer.

The Echo is proud to partner with Cork Opera House as they present the new variety family summer show.

For more information about Summer Revels visit https://www.corkoperahouse.ie/whats-on/the-summer-revels/.