In pictures: Calendar Girls performed in memory of award-winning Rachel O’Connor

Ballyshannon Drama Society staged a production of Calendar Girls in memory of the late Rachel O’Connor.

Rachel, who was the secretary at Ballyshannon Drama Society and an award-winning actress, sadly passed away last December in Omagh Hospital. The 63-year-old Belleek native had been battling cancer since her shock diagnosis while on the drama festival circuit in 2023.

“The drama society chose the Calendar Girls as we wanted to do a play in memory and it was an ideal choice due to it being based on a true story and the dimension of the fundraising for cancer charities,” John Travers, Chairperson of the Ballyshannon Drama Society, told DonegalLive. 

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All proceeds from Calendar Girls, which took place at the Abbey Arts Centre in Ballyshannon, will go to North West Hospice, Donegal Hospice, Donegal Cancer Bus and MacMillan Cancer Charities. 

Rachel’s family were also in attendance, with her husband Sean O’Connor involved in the sound production of Calendar Girls.“We were very pleased to have Sean, Rachel’s husband and their two daughters, Lauren and Sophie, as well as Rachel’s sisters and the wider O’Connor family in attendance.”

Based on a true story, Calendar Girls is a heartwarming tale of courage, friendship, and community spirit that will leave audiences both laughing and deeply moved. Directed by Geraldine Diver, this much-loved play promises an unforgettable evening of theatre.

“It culminated wth a gala performance on Saturday night, with the keynote speaker Edward Hayden from Virgin Media, the outgoing chairperson of the Drama League of Ireland.”

Rachel has won best supporting actress in the All-Ireland finals in Athlone in 2023 and the following year, she won best actress for her performance as Margaret Thatcher in a play by Sean Byrne, all while going through cancer treatment.

“It was a fantastic achievement, especially in the context of what she was going through. Rachel will also be commemorated at our drama festival. The Drama Summer School Scholarship will be awarded in her memory.”