The curtain has officially fallen on the 40th season of the Waterford Panto, bringing a remarkable chapter in the society’s history to a close after weeks of sell-out performances, rave reviews, and extraordinary audience support.
This milestone season welcomed thousands of people through the theatre doors, with every performance playing to a full house. From families returning year after year to first-time panto-goers, audiences turned out in huge numbers to celebrate one of Waterford’s most loved traditions.
Photos: Colin Shanahan – DigiCol Photography
Adding extra sparkle to the anniversary season was a host of special guest appearances, including the iconic John Mullane, whose presence was met with huge reaction from audiences. The involvement of WLR favourites Ollie and Dymphna also proved a major highlight, bringing familiar voices and faces to the stage and strengthening the deep connection between the panto and the local community.
Behind the scenes, the production was a massive collective effort, involving hundreds of performers, creatives, crew members, and volunteers. Their commitment, energy, and professionalism were evident night after night, delivering a show packed with laughter, spectacle, and heart.
The panto was further elevated by a strong and successful media partnership with WLR, whose ongoing support helped amplify the panto’s reach and celebrate its 40-year legacy.
Critical response throughout the run was overwhelmingly positive, with glowing reviews praising the scale, ambition, humour, and community spirit of the production. Many have already described this anniversary season as the strongest in the panto’s long and proud history.
As the final bows were taken, the feeling was one of enormous pride and thanks to the cast and crew, to WLR and all partners, to sponsors and supporters, and above all to the audiences who showed up in their thousands and made every performance feel special.
With the 40th season now complete, attention is already turning to the future. Plans are underway to present ‘Sleeping Beauty’, excitement is building, and the Waterford Panto team is looking ahead to 2026 , ready to raise the bar once again and continue a tradition that means so much to the city.
WLR is proud media partner of Waterford Panto. See you in 2026.
