LOETB group in Offaly form choir and are to hold concert in aid of Make a Wish

LOETB Birr are thrilled to announce the formation of a brand-new choir, which will debut with "LOETB Birr Choir & Friends", a special charity concert in support of Make-A-Wish at Birr Theatre and Arts Centre on Friday, April 11th, 2025, at 8pm.

The idea for the choir was sparked during a conversation late last year between music industry and event management students Melissa Dunne and Keeva Abbott. Their class chose Make-A-Wish as their charity of choice, inspired by fellow student Dan Daly’s personal experience - he was granted a magical trip to Disneyland, Florida, by the charity several years ago.

However, the choir extends beyond just the music and event management students. Andrea Cooke, a Sports and Outdoor Adventure student in LOETB Birr, is also a well-known artist who is recognised for her pencil portraits and digital art. Along with directing the choir, Andrea collaborated with the event management team to design the concert poster, other marketing materials and the onstage visuals that will also debut on the night of the concert. She has illustrated two published books including an educational book distributed to over 10,000 students in conjunction with Offaly Sports Partnership and Healthy Ireland, and holds a BA honours degree in Animation & Illustration. Andrea has showcased her artwork in various Art Gallery Exhibitions and has had her artwork published in multiple media forms, such as Hot Press Magazine. Having experience in Project Management, Graphic and Character Design, she brings an impactful perspective with her creative experience.

Andrea’s passions visualise in many diverse styles - from contemporary and emotional themes to vibrant space age through thought provoking electronic media. She shared, “The Music and Event students are a fantastic team to work with for such a great cause. Bringing together students from different classes at LOETB Birr creates an amazing sense of fun and community. With these designs, I wanted to capture the excitement and spirit of what the choir hopes to achieve.”

John McFadden, the Music Industry and Event Management teacher who is leading the project with the students added "There are so many benefits with the project, from raising money for Make a Wish to the students putting the skills that they are learning to practice at a professional level".

The Concert will include a series of individual and group performances leading up to the LOETB Birr Choir’s debut performance. The evening promises a diverse repertoire across a range of popular genres. Tickets are available now, with all net proceeds going directly to Make a Wish.

The event will take place on Friday April 11^th at 8pm at Birr Theatre and Arts Centre, Oxmantown Mall, Birr. Tickets: Adults €15, Accompanied Children €5, prices include booking fee.