A contest staged at a sold out Cork Opera House sees older people demonstrate a range of talents.
The Cork Opera House, which has experienced financial difficulties in recent years, recently received a significant boost with the announcement of a six‑year funding commitment from Cork City Council. Under the arrangement, the council will provide £200,000 per year in financial support. The announcement came as the theatre hosted an event guaranteed to draw a packed audience.
Tickets are in high demand for the final of the Over-60s Talent Contest. Among those fortunate enough to secure seats was the Lord Mayor of Cork, Frank Nash. Contestants were selected from community organisations across County Cork, reflecting the broad range of talent on show.
This year’s competitors included the oldest male contestant, 78‑year‑old accordionist Phil Jeffers from Crosshaven, and the oldest female contestant, 80‑year‑old Evelyn O’Donovan from Cork City, who performed a lively rendition of Olé, Olé, Olé. More than 500 acts competed for a place among the final fourteen.
The event has been organised by Paddy O’Brien for the past 15 years. The overall winner on the night was 62‑year‑old Seán Power from Cobh, whose performance of My Way brought the audience to its feet. He was congratulated by Bishop John Buckley and by Tom Meade, regional manager of Bank of Ireland, the event’s sponsor. Seán received a cheque for £1,000 as the overall winner.
An RTÉ News report broadcast on 15 May 1991. The reporter is Tom MacSweeney.
