Waterford Panto celebrates 40 years and pays a special tribute to late directors
Tony, Ann, Brenda and Paul Corcoran, with the seat dedicated to their late dad Denny Corcoran. Photo: Joe Evans
Waterford Panto is celebrating 40 years on the stage this year.
Last week, the group launched their 40th show, Cinderella, and paid tribute to two directors, Bryan Flynn and Denny Corcoran, who have passed away.
Speaking at the launch, Director Tony Corcoran said Waterford Panto has been, for 40 years, where children discover theatre for the first time and grown-ups rediscover their inner child.
“What makes panto so special is that it’s truly for everyone - young and old, families and friends, newcomers and long-time supporters.
"It’s a tradition that brings our community together, and for 40 years, the Waterford Panto Society has been proud to give that gift to this, our wonderful city of music,” said Tony.
At the launch, Waterford Panto unveiled seats dedicated to the late Bryan Flynn and Denny Corcoran.
The seats are to remain empty in honour of the two directors who passed away.
Chairperson Anne Corcoran said that although they are missed, the society honours them and the tradition they helped to build.
“Their wit, their vision, and their pure dedication to keep Waterford laughing somehow made us all better. They were not just directors - they were the ones who made “let’s try it and see what happens” a panto mantra, and we’re all better for it. Their legacy lives on every time a baddie gets booed or a song brings a tear to your eye,” said Anne.
This year’s show will be Cinderella and will run from late November to the end of December.
Tony said this year’s production will be extra special.
“Expect glittering costumes, dazzling Spraoi sets, music to get you singing along, and plenty of comedy with jokes so corny they’re actually good. And of course, the individual unforgettable moments that make panto such a cherished part of Christmas for families in Waterford and beyond,” said Tony.
Waterford Panto Society is to keep the price of this year’s show the same so that it remains accessible to families.
“To the city of Waterford: this Panto is yours. You’ve stood with us through the decades. The love, loyalty and all those panto sing-alongs are what keep our world spinning, and our curtain rising.
“Let’s look back with pride, forward with hope, and remember, there’s always room for a decent joke and extra glitter. Here’s to the next 40 years of Panto madness - long may it dazzle!” said Anne.
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