The Killarney Musical Society’s production of ‘Evita’ concluded its run at the INEC with three nights of packed audiences and an extra children’s matinee on Tuesday afternoon.

The production, which ran from March 11th to 13th, brought to life the story of Eva Peron, as told through the music of Andrew Lloyd Webber and the lyrics of Tim Rice.
Months of rehearsals, held across numerous venues, culminated in what the society described as an “absolutely incredible show.” The audience experienced an “emotional rollercoaster” through Eva Peron’s life, with the music mirroring her journey.
The production featured a large cast, a 16-piece orchestra under Musical Director Jimmy Brockie, and choreography by Stephen O’Rian. Liam Butler directed the show, which included sets, sound by Star Sound Systems, costumes by Pat McGann, and lighting by John Hurley of InFocus Lighting and Projection Design.

See next week’s Killarney Advertiser for full report on ‘Evita’.

There was an air of sadness as news filtered through Michael ‘Stephen’ Healy passed away peacefully at his Pearl River home June 20.

The New York-based Killarney man was best known as a travel agent in New York that brought thousands of American visitors and returning emigrants to Killarney over the years.

Steve was born on January 12,1936 in Kilbrean and grew up with five siblings on a farm.

His father, Michael died when he was two, and his mother, Catherine, raised the family on her own.

He attended Tiernaboul National School and St. Brendan’s College and enjoyed rowing and playing Gaelic football for his local clubs.

Steve moved to London in 1954 where he worked in a tyre factory.

In 1956, he immigrated to Chicago, and served in the US Army, gaining US citizenship.

Steve later made his way to New York City in 1957 where he met his best friend, Connie O’Sullivan.

Connie introduced Steve to his wife Anne on a blind date – ironic because they both hailed from Killarney!
In June of 1966, Connie and Steve opened their first of several travel agencies.

After residing in the Bronx for a few years, like many immigrant stories preceding them, Steve and Anne moved to the suburb of Pearl River, in October of 1966, and raised four children together.

As time passed, Steve and Anne became active members of the Kerrymen’s Association, the Ancient Order of Hibernians , Rockland Gaelic Football Club, the Irish Travel Agents Association, and St. Margaret’s Church, among other groups.

Steve also loved returning home to his beloved Killarney to see his various Spillane and Healy relatives.
Steve is survived by his wife Anne (nee Carbery), children Sean, Liam, Tara and Colleen, siblings Mary Spillane and John Joe Healy and extended family.