Paul Mescal Senior hits the stage in Kildare musical

Kildare writers and producers Helen Spring and Carol Gleeson, founders of A Likely Story Productions, are preparing to bring their acclaimed Irish production ARE YA DANCIN? to the iconic Gaiety Theatre this June (9th–13th), marking the show’s second major national Dublin run in just two years following its sold-out 3Olympia Theatre debut in 2024.

Since forming their independent production company in 2016, Helen and Carol have steadily built momentum through sheer determination, community support and an unwavering belief in their project — a vibrant Irish play with music set against the backdrop of the showband era.

The journey began close to home at The Moat Theatre in Naas, back in 2018, before the production went on to tour regionally with successful runs at VISUAL Carlow, The Civic Theatre, Tallaght (twice) and Watergate Theatre, Kilkenny, with word-of-mouth continuing to build at every stage.

Now, with more than 10,000 audience members having seen the production, ARE YA DANCIN? takes its biggest step yet as it kicks off the Gaiety Theatre’s summer programme in only a matter of weeks.

The show also boasts a wealth of Leinster talent both onstage and behind the scenes, with many familiar faces having first honed their craft in local productions, musical societies and community groups across Naas, Newbridge, Clane and Maynooth.

At the helm is acclaimed director Pat McElwain, with Clane’s Dave McGauran leading the show’s phenomenal live band as Musical Director. Choreography comes from well-known local dance instructor Deirdre Browne, while musical arrangements and choral direction are under the expert guidance of Newbridge native Owen C. Lynch, whose exceptional choral work has long impressed audiences both locally and beyond.

In addition to that, one of the leading actors is a name you might recognise. Paul Mescal, father of Oscar nominee Paul Mescal is pure dynamite as the embittered bar owner Seamie. A grudge with a chip on his shoulder, Mescal’s Seamie grounds proceedings in granite stubbornness that defines the need for escape.

Set in 1960s Ireland, ARE YA DANCIN? captures the energy, glamour and social spirit of the showband era while also exploring the deeper realities of a changing Ireland. Featuring a cast of almost 30 performers, including a live seven-piece band, it has struck a powerful chord with audiences of all generations.

For Helen and Carol, the journey to this point makes the upcoming Gaiety run especially meaningful.

“Many of the people involved in this production first discovered their love of performing in their own towns, through local societies, dance schools and community productions,” they said. “To now bring that collective talent to one of Ireland’s most iconic stages feels incredibly special.”

ARE YA DANCIN? runs at The Gaiety Theatre from June 9-13, including matinee performances. Tickets are available via the Gaiety Theatre Box Office, Ticketmaster, with group rates available for bookings of 10+