Waterford's Big Christmas Panto Brings Local Stars Home for the Festive Season
Look, I know December is basically one long blur of school concerts, messy kitchens and last-minute presents wrapped in yesterday's newspaper. But if you're hunting for something genuinely brilliant to do with the kids before the Christmas chaos peaks, this one's worth circling in the diary.
Jack and the Beanstalk is landing at the SETU Arena in Waterford from 17 to 30 December 2025, and it's shaping up to be the South East's big festive theatre moment. It's not just another panto, either. This one's packed with local talent alongside some properly big names, which makes it feel a bit more special than your average giant-slaying adventure.
Waterford's Own Leading the Charge
The real heart of this production is the Waterford connection. Richie Hayes, who's spent 25 years performing across Ireland and beyond, is finally headlining a major panto back home. After years on stages in Dublin and Limerick, he's returning to his native city. For anyone who's followed his career or remembers him from back in the day, it's a lovely full-circle moment.
Steampunk performer brings fantasy to life at outdoor event.
In the title role of Jack, you've got Evan O'Hanlon, another Waterford native who's been busy on international stages, Disney+ shows and Universal Pictures films. Now he's back to lead this festive adventure with all that experience tucked under his belt.
And then there's Holly Ryan as the Magical Fairy, returning home after years working in London theatre. She's taught, choreographed and performed in leading roles, so expect something polished and heartfelt.
The Big Names Bringing the Laughs
Of course, no panto is complete without a Dame, and this year it's Danny O'Carroll taking on Dame Mother Hen. If you've ever watched Mrs Brown's Boys (and let's be honest, who hasn't caught at least one episode?), you'll know him as Buster Brady. He was also a recent Dancing with the Stars finalist, so the man can move. Expect energy, silliness and the kind of quick wit that keeps the whole audience giggling, from toddlers right through to grannies.
Sharon Clancy from Wexford plays the villainous Baroness Felicia, bringing West End credentials to the baddie role. Every good panto needs a proper antagonist, and it sounds like she'll deliver.
Fresh Faces and Local Pride
Jamie Drohan, who many Waterford families will recognise from the Winterval Mini Express Train, is making his pantomime debut as the Mayor of Deiseville. Swapping train tracks for stage boards sounds like the perfect festive pivot.
Costumed performer brings fairytale charm to a festive parade.
And keeping things brilliantly local, 19-year-old Alex Kavanagh is making her professional debut as Jill. She's a scholarship-winning musical theatre student who's already racked up performances and awards across Waterford and Wexford. For a teenager stepping onto a professional stage in her hometown alongside seasoned actors? That's the stuff of dreams, honestly.
There's also a company of 45 young performers from youth theatre groups across Waterford, Kilkenny, Wexford and Limerick. So it's not just the leads getting their moment, it's a whole generation of local stage talent sharing the spotlight.
What to Expect
The story takes audiences up the beanstalk into the world of Deiseville, where there are magical beans, towering beanstalks (naturally), and one very large giant. It's the classic tale of good versus evil with all the comedy, music, dance and festive sparkle you'd want from a Christmas panto.
If you're trying to squeeze in something memorable before the madness of Christmas Day hits, this ticks all the boxes. Local pride, big laughs, a bit of magic and enough talent on that stage to make it worth braving the car park chaos.
Jack and the Beanstalk runs at SETU Arena, Waterford, from 17 to 30 December 2025, with matinee and evening performances. Tickets start at €25 and are available at https://www.pantoland.net/
Right. Now back to wrapping those presents and pretending you have your life together.