There has been a considerable change in attitude towards the festive Panto, with it’s new popularity resulting in an increase in the number of shows taking place around the country each year.
But one of the oldest Panto’s, first performed in 1873, is still the most popular running for an incredible two months, from 25th November to 20th January.
As they say, this is no ordinary Panto, this is the Gaiety Panto.
From the very opening number, when the cast brashly announce their intention to entertain you with ‘two-hours of live action, barely affordable fun’, the show moves along at lightening pace filled with show-stopping numbers, irreverent jokes and an energetic cast of eclectic characters, ably supported by some embarrassingly talented children.
They also proclaim that the ‘the Panto is not just for children anymore’ which the hundreds of mammies and daddies embarrassingly attempting to do the floss clearly took to heart.
This year, while having all the elements you would expect from the Gaiety Panto, writer, director and choreographer Daryn Crosbie has managed to take the show to new heights, delivering a fresh contemporary adventure with gender-fluid Alicorns (what!) and a damsel that refreshingly helps save the man from the clutches of the evil Queen, who wants to freeze his heart and steal all the Christmas fun.
The performance from the cast ensures that the strength of the storyline is not as important as the fun, mayhem and interaction with an excited audience.
While Panto Dame Joe Conlan and explosive, singing, farting narrater Michael Joseph deliver screams of laughter, it is Louise Bowden as the Snow Queen who was the star of the show. ‘This is my Panto’ she proclaims and her performance lived up to the hype.
As snow fell on a delighted audience, the madcap escapade is bolstered by equally surreal songs featuring Cork Crows, Grab-Bags and her Squad and a twist on hit song Havana (now based in Tallaght), supported by the fantastic live orchestra.
There are plenty of gags to entertain all ages with Fortnite dances and Baby Shark getting everyone on to their feet.
Will the Snow Queen manage to freeze all the Christmas fun?
Oh, no she won’t.
Do you think you’ll enjoy the show?
Oh, yes you will.
Booking Information
- Dates: Until 20th January 2019
- In person: Ticketmaster outlets and Gaiety Theatre Box Offices
- 24hour Telephone: 0818 719 388
- Group Bookings:s +353 (0)1 646 8687 / [email protected] 9 am – 5 pm / Mon – Fri
- Tickets: From €19.50 (including booking fee and restoration levy
- Online: www.gaietytheatre.ie | www.ticketmaster.ie
