The show continues nightly at 8pm until Saturday 23rd. There will be only one show on Sunday 18th, a matinee performance which commence at 5pm and the final show will be at 8pm on that night.
Kilmacrennan N.S. will host the 8pm performance on Saturday 17th and the Buddy Bear committee will host the show on Monday night. Tuesday night’s show will be
hosted by Drumoghill and Ray national schools to host the panto and Scoil Colmcille will be hosts for the Wednesday night performance. Thursday nights show will be hosted by Illistrin N.S. and Bonagee F.C. will be hosting the Friday night. Saturday 23rd there will be two shows, a matinee performance at 2.30pm and the final show at 8pm. Tickets are going fast so folks we advise you to set your alarm clocks and book your tickets early for another high-octane rollercoaster ride through the magical world of the pantomime.
The story of Aladdin is one with which we are all familiar but this Aladdin offers “A Whole New World” of pantomime and when Aladdin, played to perfection by the handsome, dashing and multi talented Luke Browne, uncorks Ronnie, the motormouth Genie, alias Morgan Coyle,from his little lamp, the result is a show full of fun-filled songs, music and laughter. Morgan’s portrayal of the Genie is a real tour de force. The Slave of the Ring is Donna Cole who made her debut on the panto stage last year. Donna has become one of the panto’s shining stars and her infectious personality is very prominent in this performance.
Princess Jasmine who is so intrinsic to the love story is played beautifully by Sarah King. Sarah who played the role of Maid Marian in last year’s show gives another stunning performance as Jasmine. The pairing of Luke and Sarah as Aladdin and Jasmine can only be described as a “match made in heaven” Sarah Masterson plays Li Lo and Maria McGInley plays So Shy – Jasmine’s ladies in waiting. Maria and Sarah have taken to these roles like the proverbial “ducks to water”. Their enthusiasm and commitment has been 100% and hopefully we will see them feature in many more pantomimes in the future.
Tommy Sweeney, once again brings his infectious enthusiasm and energy to the role of Widow Twankey with another masterclass in how to get a laugh a minute performance. Panto debutant Kieron Clarke is a thoroughly boo-able character and he delivers just the right amount of evil and nastiness in his attempt to possess the magic lamp. Kieron belies his youthfulness with a powerhouse performance in this challenging role. Another one of our young debutants –Kevin McCarron plays a blinder as the loveable Wishee Washee and his performance will have the both young and not so young members of the audience laughing and giggling throughout the show.
Two of the more experienced members of the cast, Rosemarie Gildea and Garry Coll take on the roles of Sergeant Who Flung and Constable Far Flung respectively. These two seasoned performers are in top form as they deliver an OTT performance in silliness, stupidity and senselessness. Two of our youngest members of the cast are Jennifer Tourish and Jessica Gallagher. These two ladies have been understudying a lot of parts in this production and their enthusiasm and ability is top class. John Wilkie makes a welcome return to the panto stage in a cameo role which we are sure will be a big hit with everyone.
The standard of choreography by Kelda Kelly is excellent. The dance routines are energetic, original and are executed to a very professional standard. Both Kelda and her assistant choreographer Shannagh Kelly can take a well deserved bow.
The children’s scene is going to be a real highlight once again as it has all the ingredients to capture and enrapture any audience. There will be lots of oohs and aahs when you catch sight of these little ones.
Aladdin is directed by Patrick Doherty assisted by Tommy Sweeney and Garry Coll. Musical Director is Paul Ward and Paddy O’Connor is the man responsible for the wonderful set and backdrops. Frances Walsh and Una McGlynn will be looking after the make-up department and the backstage crew of Tommy Kerr, Tony Murray, Tommy Daly and Clem Harvey will be on hand to make sure it all runs to plan.
To go into too fine a detail would be to ruin the show but suffice to say that this is a show sparing no expense and pulling no punches in costuming, sets and quality. So once again folks we advise you to book early because it’s going to be worth it…. Oh yes it is.
Tickets for the matinee performances on both Saturdays 16th and 23rd and Sunday 17th have been priced at a very attractive €8 per ticket with a family ticket for 2 adults and 2 children available at only €30. Tickets for the evening performances are priced at €15 each or 2 for €25. Tickets are available at the box office at An Grianan or by telephoning 0749120777.
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