The cast of Aladdin are gearing up for their grand opening at The Axis Theatre in Ballymun after the show was cancelled in January due to Covid-19 restrictions.
Playing Genie is the self proclaimed queen of Ballymun Dame Stuffy, who is excited for the show's premiere after its postponement earlier in the year.
Aladdin runs from April 12 until 24 and promises the usual antics and laughs from Christmas pantos.
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Karl Dawson, whose alter ego is the fabulous Dame Stuffy, spoke to Dublin Live about the panto's return and what it means for performers and the local community.
He said: "We have about 20 local kids involved in the show and they're being choreographed by another local dance teacher, Claire Walsh. We do the Red Cow panto together as well.
"The kids started rehearsing for this back in September. Then we had to stop in December and now they're back together in the rehearsal room and they're all having a ball. Their families can't wait to see it as well.
"The response from local people has been amazing. They were all given the option to get refunds but they all decided to stick with us and book new dates in April. So we're really happy about that.
"I think they're delighted that there's something that the kids can go to because it's the midterm. We have a show on Easter Sunday. It will be great."
He added: "Tickets are selling really well and the response has been great so we can't wait to just bring the panto back to the community in Ballymun and get back home to the Axis."
Audiences will be familiar with Dame Stuffy from her stint on RTE's Last Singer Standing in 2021.
Tickets for Aladdin at Axis Ballymun are available to purchase here.
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