CHrIstmas tIME MEans panto tIME In KILLorGLIn

SIMPLY put, nothing is more Christmassy than a pantomime and few are as good at staging one as Killorglin Panto Group are. The choice for the renowned Killorglin Panto Group’s 56th annual pantomime is the much loved ‘Wizard of Oz’ which the group have been busily rehearsing for since September.

One has to go all the way back to 1958 to find the starting point for this excellent panto group. The fact this is their 60th year entertaining the people of Killorglin, and beyond, is testament to their talent, longevity and expertise.

The Panto in the CYMS has been one of the highlights of the Winter Season. In recent years the reputation of Killorglin Panto has become a nationwide one as the Group have performed in Dublin, Cork, Tralee, Killarney and other Kerry towns. Several of its productions have also been covered by RTE, TG4 and TV3 (Virgin One).

The script writer, and Dame, Declan Mangan, has adapted the script they last used in 1989 for the Wizard of Oz. It features all the traditional characters from the Wizard, with Miltown teacher, Bronagh Murphy playing the lead role of Dorothy. Declan is Dame ‘Tin Lizzie’ and the comics are Kevin Moriarty and Colm Clifford with the confusing names, ‘Here’ and ‘There’.

The Musical Director for the last 5 years is Martin Hurley, who has a chorus of over 30 people singing some well-known Oz favourites, and some modern showstoppers which are sure to impress. Jackie O’Mahony (Martin’s wife) has made a name for herself as a superb choreographer and has staged some very successful Strictly Come Dancing shows all over the county. This year Jackie is also directing the show and her creative stage imagination should add to the Killorglin Panto reputation even further. Oh yes it will!

Dates for the diary: this year’s show opens on Sat 19th January. Matinees on Sat 19th January, Sunday 20th January, Sunday 27th January, and Sunday February 3rd. Night shows on Wed 23rd to Sat 26th January. Special opening Matinee price €10 all seats. Check out the Killorglin Panto Group’s Facebook page for updates and ticket details.

Niamh Clifford Beaufort, Amy and Marie O’Sullivan Callinafercy looking at the wide range of Portwest Clothing with Joe Walsh at Kerry Agribusiness. Killorglin.