Four phenomenal wins for Waterford's Up Down Boy at News & Star Green Room Awards
A thrilled Sean Upton after receiving Best Male Performance in an Amateur Drama for his performance in 'Up Down Boy'. Photo: Joe Evans
'Up Down Boy' took home four incredible awards at last Sunday's Waterford News and Star Green Room Awards.
The show saw the two stars, Seán Upton and Brenda Giles, go home with Best Male Performance in an Amateur Drama and Best Female Performance in an Amateur Drama, respectively.
The show’s director David Hennessy won Best Director in an Amateur Drama and the show itself was named Best Amateur Drama.
The show’s star Sean Upton, who plays Jack, said he was “thrilled” with the awards.
His co-star Brenda Giles told the Waterford News and Star that they are still in shock.
“We are absolutely thrilled. It’s amazing.
"We were nominated in the four categories, but we didn’t think we would come away with four categories. We are thrilled that Sean got best actor because he deserves it, and we were so delighted to get the extra awards,” said Brenda.
The play follows Jack, who has Down Syndrome, and his mother Kate, as Jack prepares to head off to college.
The show by the David Hennessy Musical and Dramatic Society was performed at St Patrick’s Gateway Centre, and, in December, featured on RTÉ’s Nationwide.
Director David Hennessy said he was delighted for everyone who made the show amazing.
“We never expected to win everything, but I’m delighted for Brenda’s family and Sean’s family and especially for the writer Sue Shields, who is no longer with us. These are all for her. She gave us permission to do this play.
"I don’t know what to say. I’m blown away,” said David.
The Waterford News & Star Green Room Awards saw 39 awards given to the best and brightest across Waterford's arts, theatre and cultural community.
The awards night was hosted by Waterford News & Star correspondent Pat McEvoy and WLR FM’s Dymphna Nugent.
Throughout the night, the audience was entertained with performances, songs and dance routines.
Mayor of Waterford City and County Jason Murphy said during the interval that those who performed on the night were a credit to Waterford.
“It’s a great night. I really enjoyed it. The first half was brilliant, and I think the second half will be better.
"Just showcasing the talent we have here in Waterford. It’s unbelievable. Ireland’s oldest city and Ireland’s most entertaining city,” said Mayor Murphy.
Playwright Jim Nolan was honoured with the Lifetime Achievement Award for his work, a career spanning over 40 years, which included being a founding member of Red Kettle Theatre Company.
Speaking to the Waterford News & Star, Jim said, "I had no idea. I'm a bit shocked. I'm only sorry my poor mum [wasn't here]. She's 92.”
The Waterford News & Star Green Room Awards were proudly supported by lead sponsors Cantec Group and Waterford Credit Union, fantastic patrons of the arts, theatre and culture in Waterford.
The drinks reception on the night was sponsored by Blackwater Distillery, and the awards also received additional generous support from Waterford City and County Council, FLI Group and Sanofi.
Executive Chairperson of Cantec Group, Eadaoin Carrick, said she really enjoyed the night.
“I’m having a great time. It's brilliant to be here and to celebrate the winners and to support arts and culture,” said Eadaoin.
Watch a video clip from 'Up Down Boy' here
