Aine lights up the Abbey stage
“Today was such a special day for Aine. Performing and singing on The Abbey stage has been a dream come through for Aine. We all watched on with such pride, to see our star take to the stage is a moment we will cherish forever.”
Those were the words of Angela, mother of Aine Ducey, after Aine’s stunning performance in ‘The Invitation’ on the Abbey Theatre stage recently.
The play was LauraLynn’s third Abbey Theatre performance which saw six of LauraLynn’s little stars take to the prestigious stage. 16 year old Aine Ducey from Mallow was one of the stars to take part in this very special production.
The original script entitled ‘The Invitation’, written by Paul Timoney, follows the adventures of six children from LauraLynn through a magical story filled with bravery, action, excitement, and thrills. A show-stopping performance by each actor wowed the crowds while the tale of cranky grannies, Mr Tumble and a special invitation ensured this performance was anything but ordinary!
For the third time in its history, the curtains in the Abbey Theatre raised to a full accessible production, with original soundtrack, set design and costumes. This unique performance was held in conjunction with the Abbey Theatre and the National Gallery of Ireland. Each star of the performance had a costume designed specifically for their wheelchair by the National Gallery of Ireland.
Parents, siblings, family and friends were in attendance. Each child was given the full celebrity treatment with hair, makeup and costumes provided to jazz up the day.
Michelle Hartnett, Senior Play Therapist at LauraLynn and the Abbey Theatre Event Co-ordinator, said: “This collaboration is a testament to the resilience and spirit of these remarkable children. Our aim is to foster an environment where creativity knows no bounds, and where each child's character is celebrated.
“Through the magic of theatre, we aim to create memories and moments of pure joy for these children and their families.” The only children’s hospice in Ireland, LauraLynn provides support to families at the toughest of times in the hospice, in the hospital, in the community or in their home, whatever the child and family wish.
Since opening in September 2011, LauraLynn Ireland Children’s Hospice has provided specialised hospice care to more than 750 children with life-limiting conditions and their families.
Unlike a hospital, a hospice provides holistic care to each child which enables them to make the most of every day. This care also extends to the family of each patient who are often dealing with difficult emotional, physical and financial pressure.