The Creative Show presents ShamStory, De Real History of Limerick

The Creative Show’s ShamStory De Real History of Limerick marks ten years of the Limerick Youth Theatre Show.

The Creative Show’s ShamStory De Real History of Limerick comes to the Belltable on Wednesday 22 & Thursday 23 March 2023 at 7.30pm

ShamStory marks a special year for the Creative Show as it celebrates its tenth birthday and Limerick Youth Theatre is delighted to see the show’s return since its cancellation in 2020 due to the pandemic.

Every year for the past decade Limerick Youth Theatre (LYT) and AVISTA (formerly known as The
Daughters of Charity Service) have worked tirelessly to stage The Creative Show.

Writing a new script from scratch, working with hundreds of singers, dancers, musicians and actors involving school choirs, arts organisations and independent practitioners, a family-friendly variety show is staged at Belltable or Lime Tree Theatre.

It takes three months of laughter, sweat and tears to make this happen but what is truly remarkable about the collaboration is its ability to bring out the best in all who participate.

Writer and director, Myles Breen said, “Over the last ten years The Creative Show has
travelled in space, in time, visited magical lands and last year we spent one day in Limerick
City.

“This year we give you 10,000 years of Limerick history but with a twist. ShamStory is
the history told by a Limerick couple, Sham and Shacinta. The pair will try to explain Saint
Munchin’s curse, whether King John ever visited Limerick and why the Flight of the Earls
was a disaster.”

Some more images from rehearsal for our Transition Year students for this year's #Creativeshow "Sham Story De Real History of Limerick" with service users from @AvistaCLG and @LimerickYT. pic.twitter.com/a9aQLSPVxx— Ardscoil Rís Limk (@ArdscoilRisLimk) February 12, 2023

Mr Breen said other events such as the Pope’s visit and Munster’s historic win over the All Blacks will be included, and “all told by the people who were there! – ‘It’s all true Sham'”!

Angie Smalis, Artistic Director of LYT says the show is the “highlight of LYT’s yearly programming”.

She said, “I am privileged to be able to co-produce this innovative and inclusive project and be part of the creative process by choreographing its dance elements.

“It is a hands-on process and we all learn from each other. Not only have the professional
team been focusing on creating and presenting their artistic work, they have been extremely
generous sharing their knowledge, expertise and resources.

“‘ShamStory, De Real history of Limerick’ is my tenth personal reminder of why I chose a career in the performing arts, it challenges and teaches all involved to be patient, understanding, inclusive and respectful of people’s abilities and needs. It is a tribute to our city, to its people and to its history. We all look forward to welcoming you to Belltable and we hope that you will dance and sing along!”

Donal Sherlock, Manager of AVISTA said that 2023 is a very special year for the Creative Show: “It is our tenth-year Creative Show anniversary. Each year The Creative Show goes from strength to strength with increased recognition and participation from the local community. The production team’s ongoing effort and commitment over months of rehearsals is heartwarming and greatly appreciated.

“The Creative Show’s success is a wonderful endorsement of all involved and recognition of
the artistic ability of the cast and crew. Over the last ten years its success has surpassed all
my expectations.”

Mr Sherlock said the show provides a “The show provides a “nurturing environment” encouraging personal growth, builds confidence and “promotes each person’s unique talents in the performing arts”.

“The commitment and involvement from all has further strengthened our creative family and promoted acceptance, tolerance, play, humour, and laughter for all who participate.”

Donal and Angie added, “We are privileged to be able to witness the personal growth of
everyone involved, the lifelong friendships that are developed and the enhanced quality of
life that results from being part of an artistic family. The Creative Show is much more than a
performance; it is an opportunity to belong.”

Shows: Wednesday 22 & Thursday 23 March 2023 @ 7.30pm
Venue: Belltable
Ticket: €15
Concessions: €10 for under 18s
Box Office: 061 953 400/www.limetreetheatre.ie

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