It's Panto time again in Mayo's county town

THE build-up to Castlebar’s annual pantomime, Aladdin, is reaching a climax.

Sponsored by Master Carpets and Coady’s, it takes place in An Sportlann from Thursday, January 2, to Sunday, January 5.

There are evening shows on the Thursday, Friday and Saturday, starting at 7.30 p.m., and matinees on Friday, Saturday and Sunday at 2.30 p.m. - six shows in all.

It’s almost 20 years since the last production of Aladdin, so it’s nice to see it make a return.

Antoinette Starken, one of the directors, stated: “We are extremely happy with rehearsals so far. This year we are getting into An Sportlann earlier than usual, so have lots of stage time practice. And we have to thank Mary Padden and all at An Sportlann for the support.”

Antoinette was full of praise for Mike Smith and Mayo Art Squad who have been working tirelessly on making all the props for the show.

“They are so creative and are so good at bringing an idea or picture from inside my head to a reality. It’s amazing that we have this great facility on our doorstep. We are so lucky to be able to avail of them.”

Antoinette, who also happens to be the chairperson of the pantomime committee, thanked this year’s two sponsors, Master Carpets and Coady’s Bar.

“Coady’s have been wonderful sponsors for the past few years and we are so happy they are sticking with us again. But it’s wonderful to have Master Carpets on board this year too.

“It wouldn’t be a magical carpet ride if we didn’t have a magic carpet, and where better to supply it than Master Carpets!”

With the show opening on Thursday, January 2, it’s a great way to start the new year with a laugh and a song - there are plenty of both in Aladdin.

A story from the East full of magical characters as well as the usual good guys and bad guys, Castlebar Pantomime’s version tells the story of Aladdin (Alex Murphy), the son of the local laundrette owner, Widow Twankey (Natasha Crouch), who falls for the Princess Jasmine (Olivia Byrne).

But as they are from opposite sides of the social divide, Aladdin must find a way to win her love.

Enter the evil Abanazar (Andy Hannon) and his magical Slave (Emma Daly).

Abanazar seeks to find the Genie (Rob Holloway) to help with his evil plans and tricks Aladdin into helping him find it.

But things don’t work out exactly as Abanazar planned.

Come along to An Sportlann, Castlebar, and find out what happens next.

With returning cast members of Aoife Lally, Mairead McDonnell, Carmel Fanning Ryan, Fran O’Leary, Sabrina McHugh and Antoinette Starken, as well as the fabulously talented senior, intermediate and junior chorus members, this is going to be once again a fantastic pantomime.

Tickets cost €14 (child), €17 (adult) and €55 (family - two adults and two children).

Tickets are available from Bronntanas, Bridge Street, Castlebar, or can be purchased online through Ticketmaster.ie.

Tickets can also be bought on the door at each show, but booking is advisable as seats are limited. Please note that seating is unreserved and tickets are non-transferable.