ARKLOW AUDIENCES WOWED BY ALADDIN

THE MAGIC of Aladdin came to Arklow last week as Arklow Panto Creations presented its debut show. Coral Leisure Centre was transformed into a theatre for a three-night run and two matinee shows, with top-class stage, backdrop and lights.

To see the show finally on stage, before a full house is a dream come true for Brendan and Sharon Kenny, who, for many years have wanted to see a pantomime performed in Arklow.

Aladdin was played by Leaving Cert student and rising star Daniel Codd student while the role of Jasmine was played by the talented Anna Kenny, who is doing her Junior Cert this year. Patrick Bracken’s portrayal of the Genie was one of the best the audience had ever seen in panto.

The villain of the show, Medusa played by Grainne Kelly had the audience terrified but mesmerised them with her powerful performance of Poison, and felt sorry for her minion Igor played by Gerry Doran who had some great punch lines.

Vincent Kilroy as Twanky and Brendan as Wishy Washy were a great duo and had the audience in stitches with their rendition of Bonnie Tyler’s ‘I Need a Hero’.

The dedication of the entire cast and crew shone through and all the hours of rehearsals really paid off. The children’s chorus was a particular favourite.

Lighting was done by Nigel Lombard, sound by Jason Fallon and Eoin Canavan, Kevin Lynch and Gavin Kennedy did a wonderful job on stage design and build.

Arklow Panto Creations extends a special word of thanks to all businesses who donated raffle prizes and Coral Leisure Centre for supporting the group, and providing the venue.