Panto season is back, and one Laois pantomime group is excited to welcome new faces to the stage.

Rathdowney Pantomime Group would like to invite all budding actors and actresses to register their name for their 2026 production.

The pantos each year combine stories, songs and media in a unique way that leaves the audience laughing and cheering for more.

Group PRO Pat Keating spoke with the Leinster Express / Laois Live ahead of the sign-up deadline.

Pictured: Rathdowney Panto 2024. Photo: Alf Harvey

"The panto has been running in Rathdowney since the 1980's, everyone in the town expects it and looks forward to it, particularly after a gloomy January. It's great to be back for our 38th show, we are delighted that it is still going strong. We were very happy with last year's attendance, it was great," he said.

"It's all great fun and it's a great way for kids and adults to make friends. Many of the children meet kids from other schools, and they make friends for life," Mr Keating said.

The group noticed a drop in participation from primary schools after the Covid-19 pandemic, and are hoping to continue seeing a steady rise. 

"There's always a great turn out from schools, it turned downward for a while in post-Covid years. We always take kids from 3rd class and upwards, because there was no panto for three years it meant that many kids hadn't seen it or taken part. It's always a bit harder to get older teens involved, but we're back on track and very pleased with last year's turnout," he said.

"We will be holding our sign-up evening on Friday January 9 from 7:30pm - 8:30pm in Rathdowney Community Centre," he explained.

"The panto is open to all primary school children from 3rd-6th class, secondary school pupils and adults. We will allow exam years to participate once permission is given from their guardians," he said.

"No names will be accepted after this date from junior cast members, and we will be holding rehearsals two or three times a week, depending on the age group. All are welcome to sign up and take part, there is no audition process. The more the merrier," Mr Keating said.

"Show dates are from March 12 to 15, so please bear this in mind when putting your name forward. Newcomers are always welcome," he said.

"We look forward to sharing a tune, dance and a laugh with you all," Mr Keating finished.

The Rathdowney Pantomime was originally written and directed by local playwright Micheal Creagh and retired GP Dr Niall Doherty.

The pair wrote and directed over thirty pantomimes, and with the help of talented and dedicated committee members and participants, each pantomime was a huge success. 

The duo handed over the reigns to local woman Karen Holohan, who has participated in many pantomimes in the town. Ms Holohan is currently finalising this year's script.

The Rathdowney Pantomime Group is chaired by Alex Bowe, with Karen Holohan as secretary, Pat Keating as PRO, and Lisa Doran as treasurer. Other committee members include Chloe Martin and Kevin Walton.

For more updates on Rathdowney Pantomime, keep an eye on the Leinster Express / Laois Live website.

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