Pantos are a Christmas tradition that many Dunbliners unfortunately missed out on over the past two years due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Now, many are planning to come back with a bang, including Liberty Panto. This year will see Aladdin take place at Liberty Hall Theatre.
The show will star singer and Dancing With The Stars champ Jake Carter in the title role. The cast also includes Dame Nellie Nu Nu as Widow Twankey, Sean Fay as Abanazar, Emma Jenkins and Jasmine and Tynan Hooper as Genie.
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The story is similar to that of the hit 90s Disney flick. When Aladdin meets Jasmine, it's love at first sight.
But there's an evil magician named Abanazar who shows up to confuse things. With the help of a Genie and some traditional panto fun and magic, Aladdin and Jasmine must find a way for love to rise above.
Liberty Panto director Michael Courtney spoke to Dublin Live about what audiences can expect this festive season. He said: "We started rehearsals there last week so we're getting into the thick of it.
"We have a lot of special effects - a magic carpet, the whole lot. It's going to be really interesting and I hope this kids enjoy it."
In a unique first this year, Liberty Panto put on a run of summer shows following cancellations at Christmas due to the pandemic. Despite a heatwave during performances leaving the cast and crews "sweltering", the Snow White at Liberty Hall Theatre was a great success.
"The summer panto did really well," Michael said. "The audience really went with it."
"Normally you'd have a whole year to prep for the Christmas one. Now with the summer one slotted in there, we have to hit the ground running for Christmas. But it has us all ready to go."
Tickets to Liberty Panto can be purchased at libertypanto.com.
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