EVENTS GUIDE 2018 - 2019
New events being added all the time. Be first in the know by subscribing to events on Facebook.com/NationalOperaHouse or visit our website Nationaloperahouse.ie 1
AT THE NATIONAL OPERA HOUSE
We are delighted to announce that the cafĂŠ on the third floor of the National Opera House has reopened under new management serving breakfast, lunch and refreshments.
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Sing Out Loud 12-22 NOV
7.30 P.M. EACH NIGHT. SAT & SUN MATINEE’S 2 P.M.
Sing Out Loud is back for its sixth consecutive year. Close to 3,000 primary school kids from all around Co. Wexford starring across 12 performances in what promises to be another fun filled, high energy, family-friendly show.
The Nualas present Glam Slam! 17 NOV
SATURDAY 8 P.M.
E22/E20 JEROME HYNES THEATRE
Bam! Pow! They are back in the ring for a glittering bout of knock-out, body slamming comedy gold. They’ll have you flat out on the matt with laughter, they will literally punch you right in the kisser with their gloves of gags and gaiety. Who? The Nualas! Don’t miss this slugfest of musical genius from Ireland’s first ladies of comedy.
Hello Again The Story of Neil Diamond 23 NOV
FRIDAY 7.30 P.M.
E25 O’REILLY THEATRE
Evocative imagery, video and narration enhance the magic as the show takes you on a musical journey through Neil Diamond’s glittering 50 year career. From The Bang Years to the present day you’ll soon be singing along to all the hits including ‘Sweet Caroline’, ‘Forever in Blue Jeans’, ‘Hello Again’, ‘Love on the Rocks’, ‘America’ and many more.
Abba Forever presents The Christmas Show 24 & 25 SAT/SUN NOV 8 P.M.
E25 JEROME HYNES THEATRE
Their music is the most played on radio stations around the world and the musical based on their life is still packing theatres from Waterloo (Pardon the pun!) to Timbuktu. This happy sing-a-long event celebrates ABBA’s music with a proud production and terrific audio visuals! Expect the most iconic hits, ‘Waterloo’, ‘Dancing Queen’, ‘Mamma Mia’’, ‘Gimme Gimme, Gimme’ and many MANY more! 3
Wexford Sinfonia presents
Rachmaninoff & Beethoven 24 NOV
SATURDAY 8 P.M.
E20 Children E5 O’REILLY THEATRE
Join conductor Andrew Synnott and Wexford Sinfonia for a sparkling programme of three orchestral masterpieces - Overture to The Magic Flute, Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 2 and Beethoven’s 2nd Symphony (nicknamed by Berlioz as “The Smiling Symphony”). Audiences are in for a musical treat in what promises to be a memorable performance by the renowned Irish pianist Conor Linehan with Wexford Sinfonia
Ballet Ireland presents
The Nutcracker 30 NOV
FRIDAY 7.30 P.M.
E15 - E25 E70 FAMILY TICKET O’REILLY THEATRE
Ballet Ireland is delighted to tour The Nutcracker, one of the world’s favourite ballets. This Irish production of this festive classic is performed by an international cast of worldclass dancers and appeals to audiences of all ages with its fairy-tale magic. Tchaikovsky’s beloved and sumptuous score, beautiful costumes, and a tale of wondrous adventure, combine to form one of the most delectable Christmas confections imaginable. “Luscious, luxurious and a sheer delight, The Nutcracker is a perfect Christmas treat” Theartsreview.com 4
Presented by Music Network
Natalie Clein (cello), Julius Drake (piano) & Claire Booth (soprano) 30 NOV
FRIDAY 8 P.M.
E20/E18 E12 STUDENT JEROME HYNES THEATRE
This consummate trio has come together to curate an intriguing exploration of three wonderfully expressive instruments. It’s often said that the cello is close to the human voice, and Clein’s cello quite literally sings, matched by the delicacy of pianist Julius Drake and the soaring tones of soprano Claire Booth. The trio has captivated audiences everywhere, winning plaudits for their dynamic energy and strong sense of narrative.
Michael Harding: On Tuesdays I’m a Buddhist 1 DEC
SATURDAY 8 P.M.
E20/E18 O’REILLY THEATRE
Join best-selling writer and raconteur Michael Harding as he reads from his latest memoir, ruminates on the difference between psychotherapy and religion, and relates the story of his pilgrimage to Skellig Michael, in his ongoing search for meaning. “Harding’s latest attempt to find meaning in life is searingly honest, funny and selfdeprecating” - The Irish Times
HFC Concert Band Concert 1 DEC
SATURDAY 8 P.M.
E10 Children E5 JEROME HYNES THEATRE
Following on from the success of last year’s concert the band will perform a mixture of music to suit all tastes, from classical to popular and even some Christmas numbers thrown in. ‘Tis the season after all! The band will be conducted by Liam Walsh. There will also be a showcase of the junior band, directed by Ann Wickham. 5
A Jingle Bell Journey 5 - 16 DEC
FOR SHOW TIMES, PLEASE VISIT WWW.NATIONALOPERAHOUSE.IE
E12 SCHOOLS E10
To avail of €10 school tickets please call box office on 053 912 2144 For 2018 we welcome a brand new interactive Christmas adventure, A Jingle Bell Journey. Become a part of the action with lots of giggles and laughs on an adventure with new and old friends and LOADS of Christmas magic. This is an unmissable Christmas event for children aged 3-8 years. “Well done to you all! Fantastic show, the big kids enjoyed it too” - Lauren Corish Wallace
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The Waterboys 5 DEC
WEDNESDAY 8 P.M.
E44 O’REILLY THEATRE
Few bands have changed as much as The Waterboys from their forming in 1983. Their music has never ceased to evolve, from the influential mix of Celtic, gospel, country and rock on the classic ‘Fisherman’s Blues’, to the firedup poetic passion of 2011’s ‘An Appointment with Mr Yeats’ and 2015’s acclaimed return to prominence, the rootsy, funky ‘Modern Blues’ 7
Irish Baroque Orchestra
Handel’s Messiah 6 DEC
THURS 7.30 P.M.
E25/E20 O’REILLY THEATRE
The Irish Baroque Orchestra’s annual production of Handel’s masterpiece is a memorable and glorious affair. Joined by outstanding soloists and the wonderful Resurgam choir, IBO’s performance tells the universal story of triumph over trial, where life’s sorrows and despairs are met by overriding hope and unbridled joy. A festive and seasonal event not to be missed!
Aslan 7 DEC
FRI 8 P.M.
E25 O’REILLY THEATRE
Aslan, the legends of Irish rock, take to the stage of the National Opera House on December 7 for an unmissable night of music. Composed of Christy Dignam, Joe Jewell, Billy McGuinness, Alan Downey, Rodney O’Brien and Sean Kelly. 8
Nathan Carter 8&9 DEC
SAT&SUN 8 P.M.
E33 O’REILLY THEATRE
With five recorded albums, Nathan and his band will light up the stage with all the classic hits and songs that have made him a firm favourite with Irish audiences. Current album Where I Wanna Be reached the coveted Number 1 position in the Irish Charts. And the wheels keep on turning for the talented singer having just signed a Worldwide Record Deal with Decca Records; he continues to sell out venues across Ireland.
Tommy Tiernan presents Paddy Crazy Horse 12 DEC
WEDNESDAY 8 P.M.
E30 O’REILLY THEATRE
Back on the road again, Tommy Tiernan is touring his brand new show. He rants, raves, dances and acts. He tries to be very silly and very serious at the same time. He mixes a love of comic rebellion and a refusal to be conscripted into a rational view of the world with a deep grá for talking and the poetry of everyday speech. Using high theatricality and lots of dirty words, this is a fastpaced and exuberant celebration of everything that’s wild, wrong and wonderful about being alive right here, right now. 9
Lantern Presents
Foil, Arms & Hog 14 DEC
FRIDAY 8 P.M.
E25 O’REILLY THEATRE
Lantern presents Foil Arms & Hog with a brand new show, Craicling. The show has yet to be reviewed but when it is, it will be “utterly spellbinding” and “a triumph”. Best known for their YouTube videos with over 50 million online views, their live show is what they’re most proud of. “Quite simply, a sensation”- Edinburgh Festivals Magazine
Wexford School of Ballet presents
Swan Lake 15 DEC
SATURDAY 8 P.M.
ADULT E22 / CHILD E15 O’REILLY THEATRE
Priority Booking Monday 1 October - Thursday 1 November. General Booking opens Friday 2 November. The Wexford School of Ballet and Performing Arts (WSBPA) will present Swan Lake, one of the great love stories of classical ballet, composed by Tchaikovsky. With its magical and mysterious score it will transport you through the timeless love story of Odette and Prince Siegfried, that mixes magic, tragedy and romance.
The RTÉ National Symphony Orchestra Presents
Swingin Christmas 19 DEC
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WEDNESDAY 7.30 P.M.
E25 - E45 O’REILLY THEATRE
Roll on Christmas time we say! Superstar composer/arranger Andrew Cottee directs the RTÉ National Symphony Orchestra with stellar vocalists Matt Ford and AnnaJane Casey for a sensational concert of Christmas classics made famous by the likes of Bing Crosby, Ella Fitzgerald and Frank Sinatra including songs like ‘Let it Snow’, ‘Winter Wonderland’, ‘The Christmas Song’ and ‘White Christmas’. The perfect start to the holiday season!
Sleeping Beauty Pantomime 27 - 30 DEC
2PM & 6.30PM EACH DAY
E25/FAMILY TICKET E80 O’REILLY THEATRE
Get ready for a truly magical family outing when the pantomime of your dreams Sleeping Beauty comes to the National Opera House this Christmas! Bursting with celebs, an all-star cast production headlined by Fair City’s George McMahon (“Mondo O’Connell”) and Aoibheann McCaul (“Caoimhe Dillon”), and RTÉ Jr favourite Clara Murray (Twigin’, Singalong / Pop Goes The Weekend), Sleeping Beauty is sure to be THE event for this Christmas and New Year season, filled with laughter galore, fabulous costumes and chart-topping hits. 11
2 Many Dance Moves For all your dancing dreams 21 DEC
FRIDAY 7 P.M.
E10 - E12 JEROME HYNES THEATRE
Energetic and Innovative Contemporary and Modern Dance company Est 2008. Artistic Director Becci Whelan delivers first-class, safe and spectacular dance to any soul who wants to move. Producing high quality dance works and training for young people. 2 Many Dance Moves is an after-school dance programme for children and teens starting from age 3 up to teens.
Keith Barry Deception 11 JAN
FRIDAY 8 P.M.
E32 O’REILLY THEATRE
The internationally acclaimed Mind Magician is bringing ‘Deception’, his biggest and most spectacular production yet, on tour across Ireland this December 2018 to March 2019. Mind Control, Brainwashing, Subliminal messaging, Cults, and every form of deception imaginable will be explored in this brand new show where Keith Barry will blur the line between reality and deception.
The High Kings present Decade 12 JAN
SATURDAY 8 P.M.
E27.50 O’REILLY THEATRE
The High Kings, the true heirs of Ireland’s Folk Heritage, return to the National Opera House for what will certainly be another sell out show. Finbarr Clancy, Brian Dunphy, Darren Holden and George Murphy bring the history of Irish folk songs and ballads to life in their brand new show.
Sharon Shannon, Frances Black & Mary Coughlan Live Concert! 18 JAN
FRIDAY 7.30 P.M.
E30 O’REILLY THEATRE
Sharon Shannon, Frances Black and Mary Coughlan, three of Ireland’s most successful female artists join together for a special night of music. The three ladies are no stranger to performing together having been part of the Womans Heart shows that contributed to making them household names. This will be a special night that will see each act perform their own songs and all three will come together for the finale. 12
Chanticleer
Then and There, Here and Now 19 JAN
SATURDAY 7.30 P.M.
E20/E30 O’REILLY THEATRE
Then and There, Here and Now celebrates Chanticleer’s 40 years of globe-trotting with favourite composers and compositions by Stucky, Sametz, Bates, and Chen Yi. Classic Chanticleer folk, pop, jazz and gospel from our favourite arrangers - Jennings, Purling, McGlynn and Price. The heart-rending early music by Victoria, Gibbons, Palestrina, Byrd and others for which Chanticleer was formed. An emotional trip down memory lane recalling Chanticleer’s 40 years as an orchestra of voices.
Tommy Fleming Voice of Hope Tour 26 JAN
SATURDAY 8 P.M.
E30 O’REILLY THEATRE
After the huge success of VOICE OF HOPE, the next installment is on the way from Tommy Fleming! He recorded his new show VOICE OF HOPE TOO in September 2018 in Galway Cathedral and releasing the CD and DVD in November 2018, followed by a nationwide tour with his full band from January to March 2019.
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Jason Byrne
You Can Come In, But Don’t Start Anything
1 FEB
FRIDAY 8 P.M.
E25 OVER 15’S ONLY O’REILLY THEATRE
Presented by Special Eye Entertainment. A brand new show from “The Outright King of Live Comedy” The Times. The star of Ireland’s Got Talent, Jason Byrne is one the most exciting live comedy performers in the world. His legendary shows become a secret shared experience among his audience, because they are all different! ‘Watching a new Jason Byrne show is a bit like witnessing lightning in a bottle’ Edinburgh Evening News
Bell X1
Acoustic-ish with Dowry Strings 2 FEB
SATURDAY 8 P.M.
E35 O’REILLY THEATRE
Known for their musical versatility and experimentation, Bell X1’s seven albums have incorporated alternative, indie, hard rock, post-punk, acoustic, lo-fi, folk-rock, ballad, pop, synth-pop, new wave and electronica. The band will be joined by Dowry Strings (Éna Brennan) who will provide string accompaniment. 14
Reeling in the Showband Years 3 FEB
SUNDAY 8 P.M.
E30/E28 FOR GROUPS OF 10+ (CONTACT BOX OFFICE) O’REILLY THEATRE
We are delighted to say that The Ronan Collins Showband Show Reeling In The Showband Years is returning once again to the National Opera House to celebrate its amazing 10th-anniversary tour. Hosted by RTÉ’s Ronan Collins and featuring Red Hurley, Linda Martin, Dave Lawlor, Keith and Lorraine McDonald, The Conquerors Showband as well as Tommy and Jimmy Swarbrigg.
Roy Orbison ReBorn 8 FEB
FRIDAY 8 P.M.
E32.50 O’REILLY THEATRE
Presented by Pat Egan Sound, the world’s #1 Roy Orbison tribute star, Dean Bourne has been described as having “The Spirit Of Roy Orbison”. 2019 sees Dean and his musicians return to Ireland to perform the ultimate tribute to ‘The Big O’. Following last year’s sold out national tour, Roy Orbison Reborn will transport audiences to the great Rock ‘n’ Roll era.
Johnny Cash Roadshow 9 FEB
SATURDAY 7.30 P.M.
E27/E25 O’REILLY THEATRE
The only show to be endorsed by the CASH family! Johnny Cash Roadshow features respected singer/songwriter Clive John. After sold out shows across Europe this is now a bigger show than ever, introducing the new brass section the ‘Roadshow Horns’ all accompanied by emotive screen visuals.
Eddi Reader 15 FEB
FRIDAY 8 P.M.
E20 O’REILLY THEATRE
Scottish songstress Eddi Reader returns to Irish shores in February 2019 for her eleventh consecutive nationwide tour. She will be joined by her regular band members, John Douglas (guitar & vocals), Boo Hewerdine (guitar & vocals), Alan Kelly (piano accordion) and Kevin McGuire (double bass & vocals). With her captivating and powerful performances, Eddi Reader has effortlessly developed into one of popular music’s most thrilling and affecting performers. 15
Mario Rosenstock 22 FEB
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FRIDAY 8 P.M.
O’REILLY THEATRE
We are delighted to welcome back Mario Rosenstock with a brand new show for 2019. Full details will be announced soon, check Nationaloperahouse.ie to keep up to date..
Des Bishop presents Take Your Points 23 FEB
SATURDAY 8 P.M.
E25 O’REILLY THEATRE
That’s good advice on the pitch, but an even better metaphor for life especially when you don’t take advice well. How hard can it be for a man to say “point taken!” Des Bishop’s new show tries to digest the incredible changes we have seen in society in the last year and a half. Consent, Trump, the 8th and how everyone is online. Everyone’s welcome from snowflakes to the easily offended and those that complain about people being offended. We all have points to take and goals to come!
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Royal Moscow Ballet Presents Swan Lake 28 FEB
THURSDAY 7.30 P.M.
E25 - E32.50 O’REILLY THEATRE
A firm favourite with the Wexford audience annually, the impressive Royal Moscow Ballet makes a return visit this February 2019 with its inspiring production of Swan Lake. Set to Tchaikovsky’s magical and mystical score, Swan Lake is one of the most famous and best loved works in the Ballet repertoire worldwide. The Royal Moscow Ballet’s production of Swan Lake is an irresistible combination of drama and tragedy set against the dramatic battle between good and evil. From the splendour of the palace ballroom to the moon-lit lake where Swans glide in perfect formation. All brought to life on the National Opera House stage through amazing costumes and beautiful staging.
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Irish National Opera present
Orfeo ed Euridice 2 MAR
SATURDAY 8 P.M.
E20 - E30 O’REILLY THEATRE
by Christoph Willibald Gluck In partnership with the Irish Baroque Orchestra Gluck’s revolutionary opera, Orfeo ed Euridice, was a highlight of Galway International Arts Festival 2018 where it had a run of sold-out performances. This major new production from Irish National Opera and United Fall is directed and choreographed by one of Ireland’s most exciting dance theatre-makers, Emma Martin, who “creates the sublime out of grief” (The Independent). Mezzo-soprano Sharon Carty’s performance in the title role is “compelling, both vocally and dramatically” (Goldenplec). She is “well matched by Sarah Power’s mysterious
Euridice” (Sunday Independent). Emma Nash is a “powerfully soaring Amore” (Sunday Independent), and the production also features an ensemble of four singers and four United Fall dancers who “beautifully amplify the libretto” (The Independent). The power of the Orpheus myth lies in its balance between mortality and hope, transcendence and love. Orfeo ed Euridice is a powerful mix of music, song, dance and imagery, and features Gluck’s famous and profoundly moving aria Che farò senza Euridice. Sabine Dargent’s set design is described as “sublime”, and Stephen Dodd’s lighting design as “meticulous” (Exeunt Magazine) while Catherine Fay’s costumes are “simply stunning” (Irish Independent)”.
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Derek Ryan Live in Concert 3 MAR
SUNDAY 8 P.M.
E30 O’REILLY THEATRE
Derek Ryan continues to maintain his position at the top table of Irish Country Music with his brand of original material and country classics. His album The Fire spawned the hits ‘Heaven Tonight’, ‘Homeland’ and ‘Down On Your Uppers’ which will be featured along with his many classics ‘Hold On To Your Hat’, ‘God’s Plan’ and ‘Life Is A River’ during this concert tour.
Carducci Quartet and Julian Bliss 23 MAR
SATURDAY 4.30 P.M.
E20/E17, Student E5 O’REILLY THEATRE
Presented by Music for Wexford in association with the National Opera House. Julian Bliss, one of the world’s finest clarinet players, will be joined by The Carducci String Quartet, highly acclaimed for their interpretation of contemporary repertoire.
Menopause The Musical 23 MAR
SATURDAY 8 P.M.
E35 O’REILLY THEATRE
Following multiple sell-out Irish tours, the ultimate girls night out is embarking on an Irish nationwide tour in Spring 2019 starring Katherine Lynch from Wagon’s Den, Cheryl Fergison from Eastenders, Maureen Nolan of The Nolans and Rebecca Wheatley from Casualty! This fabulous comedy hosts a cast of hormonal women, memory loss, one-liners and innuendo-laden versions of pop classics. The hysterical Menopause The Musical has entertained and inspired women across the world since 2001. 20
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Rhythm of the Dance 20th Anniversary Tour 5 APR
FRIDAY 8 P.M.
E30/E27 conc O’REILLY THEATRE
An exciting 2-hour trip through hundreds of years of Irish dance and music, 22 Awardwinning world & Irish dance champions with 25 dazzling costume changes. Experience flailing fiddles, flutes, and inspiring dances along with our live vocalists, all complemented by a top live Irish trad band of multiinstrumentalist musicians.
The Ultimate Eagles 12 APRIL
FRIDAY 8 P.M.
E28/E25 O’REILLY THEATRE
The Ultimate Eagles return once again to perform their legendary hits and newer favourites. No show in the world recreates the American legend’s music with such accuracy and reverence as The Ultimate Eagles, being hailed by the press as The World’s Greatest Eagles Show. “The Greatest Eagles Show in the World” Chris Evans, BBC Radio 2 21
The Legends of American Country 14 APR
SUNDAY 8 P.M.
E25 O’REILLY THEATRE
The Legends of American Country return for another fantastic night of toe-tapping country classics. The 2019 tour will showcase highly acclaimed tributes to Dolly Parton, Johnny Cash, Merle Haggard, Tammy Wynette, Kenny Rogers, George Jones, Charley Pride, Patsy Cline, Glen Campbell, Don Williams in this must-see extravaganza
Wexford Light Opera Society present
Chitty Chitty Bang Bang 29 APR - 4 MAY
TICKETS GO ON SALE FROM DECEMBER 1 THE NATIONAL OPERA HOUSE BOX OFFICE.
The award-winning Wexford Light Opera Society present the smash hit musical Chitty Chitty Bang Bang! Based on the beloved 1968 film adaption of Ian Fleming’s children’s book. Chitty Chitty Bang Bang is one family-friendly blockbuster that audiences will find truly scrumptious.
The Greatest Love of All The Whitney Houston Show 5 MAY
SUNDAY 8 P.M.
E34/E31 O’REILLY THEATRE
This breathtaking production, featuring the impeccable vocal talents of South Africa’s Belinda Davids, is a beautifully crafted tribute to one of the world’s most revered singers. Accompanied by a full band and dancers, Davids performs over two hours of Whitney Houston’s bestloved pop hits live on stage.
The King Is Back Ben Portsmouth Live! 6 MAY
MONDAY 7.30 P.M.
E27.50 - E29.50 O’REILLY THEATRE
Having honed his musical talent Ben started his journey as an Elvis Tribute Artist in 2005 when he formed the Taking Care Of Elvis band. He looked like Elvis, sang like Elvis and had an on stage charisma that had audiences believing at times they were watching the King himself. This talent saw Ben rapidly rise through the ranks of Elvis Tribute Artists. 22
Rebecca O’Connor as Tina Turner in Simply the Best 18 MAY
SATURDAY 8 P.M.
E28/E25 O’REILLY THEATRE
We are proud to announce that Rebecca is returning to Wexford for an encore performance in 2019. This show is perfectly summed up by living legend Mick Fleetwood of Fleetwood Mac when he said “Rebecca is way beyond a tribute act, she is an amazing singer and performer in her own right, I was mesmerised, a night you’ll never forget”! And the words of Tina Turner herself “Rebecca is so good, it’s scary! If I had her energy, I would still be touring today.”
E12/E10 (SCHOOLS) JEROME HYNES THEATRE
The Simon & Garfunkel Story 8 JUNE
SATURDAY 7.30 P.M.
E25/E23 O’REILLY THEATRE
The Simon & Garfunkel Story is back! Using huge projection photos and original film footage, this 50th Anniversary Celebration also features a full live band performing all the hits including Mrs Robinson, Cecilia, Bridge Over Troubled Water, Homeward Bound and many more. “Fantastic” - Elaine Paige, BBC Radio 2. “Authentic and Exciting” - The Stage 23 23
booking information How to book at the National Opera House In Person The box office is located in the foyer of the National Opera House, High Street, Wexford. Opening hours are Monday to Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. By Phone Our Box Office phone number is: +353 53 912 2144/1850 4 OPERA Box Office phone lines are open from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday to Saturday.
Online You can buy tickets online at Nationaloperahouse.ie On Sundays, Bank Holidays and performance days the Box Office opens three hours in advance of the performance. 24