A Night of Music and Community at Sunbeam House Services’ Annual Variety Show
Sunbeam House Services recently hosted an unforgettable evening at the Arklow Bay Hotel, bringing together a large and enthusiastic audience for their annual variety show. This year’s event was particularly impressive, showcasing the talents of 106 musicians, singers, and entertainers, including 64 Sunbeam music program clients from across the county. The show marked the sixth consecutive year that the group has delivered an even bigger and more spectacular performance than the last.
The evening began with a warm welcome from Sunbeam CEO Fran Murphy, who greeted families and friends of the organization. The first act of the night was ‘Sing for Fun’, a mixed group from Arklow, who performed a beautiful rendition of Somewhere Over the Rainbow. Their performance set the tone for the rest of the evening, highlighting the creativity and dedication of the participants.
The second half of the show was opened by Na Cailíní, a traditional music group known for their lively performances. They were joined by four Sunbeam percussionists, who provided a rhythmic backdrop for a series of Kerry polkas. The combination of traditional Irish music and the energetic beat created a vibrant atmosphere that had the audience fully engaged.
Another highlight of the evening was the performance by the folk and ballad group ‘A Feast of Irish Folk’. They played two songs, which were accompanied by four Sunbeam clients, adding a unique touch to their set. The energy in the room continued to build as the show progressed, with each act contributing to the overall sense of community and celebration.
One of the most memorable moments came when the Richie Kavanagh tribute took the stage. The tribute brought the audience to its feet, as everyone joined in to perform The Conga to close the show on a high note. The final song was a fitting end to an evening filled with music, laughter, and a strong sense of inclusion.
Tommy Breen, who leads the Sunbeam music program, described the night as a celebration of interaction, diversity, and inclusion. He expressed his gratitude to the volunteers who helped ensure the event ran smoothly, from those who managed the entrance and backstage to those who handled front-of-house duties. He also thanked The Arklow Bay Hotel for allowing the use of its facilities free of charge, as well as the prize sponsors, including Deck Coffee House, Ballyraine campus, and Gorey Pharmacy.
Additionally, Tommy acknowledged the support of Na Cailíní, who sponsored the sound, lighting, and printing for the event. Their contributions were vital in making the show a success and ensuring that every performance was delivered with the highest level of quality.
This year’s variety show once again demonstrated the power of music to bring people together. It was a night of talent, teamwork, and community spirit, reflecting the values that Sunbeam House Services continues to uphold.