Events Digest
A group of talented pupils from Assumption Grammar School in Ballynahinch, County Down flew to New York City in March to perform in the prestigious 2024 St. Patrick’s Day Parade after the pandemic delayed their previous visit in 2020.
“We had organised to go to New York City four years ago, but the trip was cancelled five days before departure because of Covid… we were devastated as we had spent months organising the trip,” said Mrs. Marcelle Orsi, teacher and Vice Principal.
Disappointment turned to joy when the opportunity arose to participate in the 2024 parade instead. “The music staff have been preparing the girls for months to make sure they showcase the talent of our students who have been rehearsing the music, their songs, and their dances for this amazing opportunity. Some of our girls have never been on a plane before, so for this to be their first experience of travelling outside Ireland is incredible.”
“Music should be a leveller that anyone can enjoy, and we wanted to make sure no one was disadvantaged,” said Vice Principal Orsi. The school collaborated with St. Vincent Ferrer High School in New York to host a concert in their chapel and were honored by an invitation from Cardinal Dolan to perform at the morning Mass at St. Patrick’s Cathedral on St. Patrick’s Day.
Final year student Aoife Kane has been Irish dancing since she was five years old, and she expressed her excitement to see New York:
Having been heartbroken over missing the trip the first time, I am incredibly excited to see New York. This being my final year in school, it is very special to experience this once-in-a-lifetime trip.
The Partnership is delighted to support the visit of the students from Ballynahinch to the United States, to showcase their talents and join in the celebration of Ireland’s global holiday.