Teenage Kicks for Derry choir as recording hits the big screen

Teenage Kicks, so hard to beat – so the classic hit by The Undertones goes and so too it proved for choir members from a Londonderry special education school who have recorded a new version with the legendary punk band.

Choir members from Ardnashee School and College attended a special cinema screening of the performance on Wednesday, which was filmed last December at the home of Derry City FC, the Ryan McBride Brandywell Stadium.

Widely regarded as one of the band’s best-known songs, the 1978 hit has also become an unofficial anthem for Derry City supporters.

The recorded performance was part of the club’s outreach initiative to promote inclusion through music and community engagement.

About 50 pupils formed the choir to record the song, bringing new energy to a much-loved Candystripes’ anthem.

“It was very good. I’m very proud of myself,” said pupil Logan after seeing himself on the big screen at the Brunswick Moviebowl.

The school choir’s rendition had previously caught the attention of the band after an earlier version was shared online, prompting The Undertones to want to collaborate on the special recording.

Bass guitarist Mickey Bradley, who attended Tuesday’s screening, praised the students’ energy and musical ability.

“To see all those children who are getting great pleasure out of singing a song that you were involved in, you know it’s hard to beat,” he said.

“The joy and the enthusiasm that they had for it, kind of reminded me of the way we were whenever we were teenagers—whenever we made the record, you know.”

Guitarist Damian O’Neill said it was a really enjoyable project to be a part of and praised the choir’s performance.

“Watching the kids when they were singing it and the joy that they were getting, they were obviously having fun,” he said.

“We get that same feeling,” he added

Karen Pyne, Derry City FC’s supporters liaison officer, said the project has been a fantastic initiative, and everyone loves the new recording.

“Three years ago we set up Different Together in conjunction with Ardnashee School and College to bring inclusion and diversity to the club.”

Tuesday’s event also included tributes to filmmaker Vinny Cunningham, who directed the original video in December and passed away in February at the age of 58.

Mr Cunningham, a dedicated Derry City fan, was well known for his work on Mahon’s Way, Lesser Spotted Ulster, and documentaries about both the Troubles and The Undertones.

Ardnashee principal Raymond McFeeters described the experience as “magnificent” for the children involved.

“I think they thought that they were the stars,” he said.

Newly-appointed deputy mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council Niree McMorris said the pupils should be incredibly proud of everything they have achieved.

“It’s wonderful to see this school being recognised for the special children that are within it. To be involved in the project with Teenage Kicks is amazing.”

The screening ended with loud applause and cheers — and an encore by popular demand from those in attendance.

“It was so amazing that we had it on twice,” said pupil Faye.

Cian, another pupil and choir member, attended the screening with his parents and said he could hardly believe his eyes when he saw himself and his friends on the big screen.

“I was like: ‘No way, is that actually real?’ I loved it.”