Jack and the Beanstalk Panto happening in SETU
In the title role of Jack, Evan O'Hanlon Photograph: Patrick Browne
Although the Theatre Royal panto is sold out, tickets are still available for 'Jack and the Beanstalk' panto in the SETU Arena. Showcasing local talent alongside nationally acclaimed performers, the pantomime promises an evening of music, comedy, dance, and festive magic.
Running from December 17 to 30, the production brings together a star-studded ensemble including Waterford’s own Richie Hayes, who returns home after years on Dublin and Limerick stages to headline a major panto in his native city.
Joining him is Danny O’Carroll, playing the uproarious 'Dame Mother Hen'. Known worldwide as Buster Brady from 'Mrs Brown’s Boys' and a recent Dancing with the Stars finalist, Danny combines quick wit, boundless energy, and a natural charm that guarantees laughter for the entire family.
In the title role of 'Jack', Evan O’Hanlon brings his experience from international theatre, television, and film back to his native Waterford. His impressive résumé includes Disney+ series, Universal Pictures films, and major pantomime roles in Dublin, Limerick, and Dubai, making him the perfect hero to lead this festive adventure.
Waterford’s own Holly Ryan enchants as the 'Magical Fairy', returning home after many years in London theatre.
Jamie Drohan, familiar to young audiences from the Winterval Mini Express Train, makes his pantomime debut as the affable 'Mayor of Deiseville', ready to trade tracks for stage antics.
Finally, 19-year-old Alex Kavanagh makes her professional debut as 'Jill'. A scholarship-winning musical theatre student, Alex has performed across Waterford and Wexford, earning awards and recognition, and now steps into the professional spotlight in her hometown.
The production also features a company of 45 talented young performers from local and regional youth theatre groups, ensuring the next generation of stage stars share the limelight alongside seasoned professionals. The youth performers are from Waterford, Kilkenny, Wexford and Limerick.
Audiences will be transported up the beanstalk into Deiseville, where magical beans, towering beanstalks, and a larger-than-life giant await.
'Jack and the Beanstalk' runs at SETU Arena, Waterford, from December 17 to 30, with matinee and evening performances.
Tickets start at €25 and are available at www.pantoland.net


