Tullamore’s Funhouse Theatre Club hosts launch of ‘nude’ calendar for Offaly Hospice

The Old Warehouse in Tullamore saw the launch of the ‘nude’ calendar on Saturday, April 20, featuring lots of local faces and some even daring enough to undergo a waxing auction, all to raise funds for the new Midlands Hospice in Tullamore, which will serve the communities of Laois, Offaly, Westmeath, and Longford.

The calendar is produced in association with Calendar Girls The Musical and involves local Credit Unions.

“Thank you to everyone who made our Nude Calendar Launch Party and Offaly Hospice fundraiser a great success,” said a spokesperson. “Thanks to the girls from Nakid by Sharon Leavy for their expertise, to Old Warehouse Tullamore for hosting, to Eva Noelle Photography for taking all the shots for our calendar.”

A big ‘thank you’ was also extended to all the men who lost bits of hair to waxing, to the people who donated, to Joe Steiner for shaving his head, to Mick Hannon of Offaly Hospice and Tom Allen from North Midlands Credit Union Mullingar for their attendance and support.

“We are seeking local business owners who would be able to take a batch of calendars to sell please. All money raised goes towards Midlands Regional Hospice Tullamore. It's an 18 month calendar, dated from July 2024 – December 2025 featuring lots of familiar local faces.

“Please get in touch if you can assist and we will get a few out to you as soon as possible. Help support our local community in fundraising for this much needed local service,” added the spokesperson.

Separately, a series of limited edition prints was also created for the worthy cause. Now is the chance to buy a specially commissioned Limited Edition Emma Campbell Art print for only €65 delivered, or €55 collected from Esker Arts Centre Tullamore during the show of Calendar Girls from May 1 - 5.

“Emma created ‘Perfectly Imperfect’ a radiant sunflower that captures the essence of our tale and embodies the symbol of hospice care worldwide. Its seeds represent the patient, enveloped in petals of love, care, and compassion,” said a spokesperson.

Members of the public can buy these limited edition prints exclusively from the funhouse.ie website. The canvas comes mounted and framed and was specially commissioned by Fun House for Calendar Girls. All funds raised go to Offaly Hospice.

Fun House Theatre Company is set to present Calendar Girls The Musical at the Esker Arts in Tullamore from Wednesday May 1, to Sunday, May 5. This captivating production is inspired by the heart-warming 2003 film Calendar Girls, which featured renowned actresses Helen Mirren and Julie Walters.

The story was beautifully adapted for the theatrical stage by Tim Firth in 2008 and made its musical debut in 2015, enriched by the musical genius of Gary Barlow. Under the direction of the Aims award-winning Pat McElwain, the show boasts a remarkable ensemble cast drawn from the vibrant midlands region.

The production's dynamic movement is choreographed by Chris Corroon, with Shane Farrell leading as the musical director. Highlighting local talent, the show stars Jay Origan, Amanda Cunningham, and Sinéad Handy - names well-known and loved by local theatre-goers.

In an exciting collaboration, Fun House has partnered with Offaly Hospice, encouraging audiences to support through various fundraisers and donations to collection buckets located in the foyer. Tickets are €25 plus booking fee, at eskerarts-tickets.ticketsolve.com