Munster Express Online

One of the great benefits of pantomime is the new talent that it reveals. The recent production of ‘Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs’ proved no different, with most of the leading roles filled by new discoveries.

All the principal roles bar two, the Prince (Dermot Keyes) and the Lord Chamberlain (Dennis Barry), were played by new talent.

Leading the way in his first Dame role, Fergus Power scored a triumph. Ruth Gahan stepped into the title role of Snow White and graced the stage with her lovely voice and personality.

Rosalyn Hackett played the part of the wicked Queen and was superb, revelling in the boos and hisses that greeted her every entrance.

The Mirror Twins of Sarah Power and Chloe O’Sullivan, not only looked sensational, but played their parts to perfection, and the two ‘funny’ men, Michael O’Dwyer and Eamonn O’Neill, enjoyed every moment of their excellent performances.

What can be said about the 14 super children, who alternated at every second performance, in the roles of the Seven Dwarfs?

Showing no sign of nerves, they brought the parts of the dwarfs to life, adding immeasurably to the hilarity of the show. No doubt, most of these newcomers will star in future productions.

Speaking of future Productions scarcely had the dust settled on the panto, than the Society is busy planning for Spring 2007’s show, ‘The Mikado (With a Swing)’.

The Mikado is a Gilbert and Sullivan romp. It features the runaway son, Nanki Poo, supposedly executed by an incompetent executioner, Koko, who finishes up marrying the “villainous”, ugly Katisha, leaving the aforementioned Nanki Poo, marrying the love of his life, the gorgeous Yum Yum.

It’s a classic Gilbertian tale of mix-ups and deranged characters – perfect for a Musical Society to put on, then!

Giving this story a 21st century twist, Musical Director Fergal Carroll is currently writing new arrangements, giving the show a ‘swing’ sound to transform the tale to contemporary times. Fergal, along with director Liam Butler are working on a series of great, novel ideas to really make this version of ‘The Mikado’ swing!

This of course, depends on the talent available, and with this in mind, the Society is having a launch, plus get-together, of all interested parties, at the Carraig Hotel on Thursday next, November 22nd at 8pm.

This is a call to sopranos, altos, tenors and basses of all shapes and sizes.

As well as an energetic on-stage cast, ‘Mikado (With a Swing’) needs pit singers to sing as the guys and gals on stage get involved in the crazy goings-on. So singers, answer the call!

‘Mikado (With a Swing)’ will officially open the new Strand Theatre’s extension in all its glory. See you in the Carraig next Thursday!