Quare cold panto was the coolest show in town last week

AN ICY CHILL swept through Carlow last week as the town was gripped with the excitement and expectations for Freezin’ – the Quare Cold Panto.

A mash-up of the classic tale of the Snow Queen with Disney’s Frozen, with lashings of all things Carlow for good measure, Striking Productions’ annual panto once again highlighted the extraordinary talent Carlow that has to offer. From the youngest cast members to seasoned adults, dance routines to solo performances, cracking one-liners to hilarious Carlow puns, this pantomime adventure had it all.

Written and directed by Robert O’Neill, with assistant director and choreographer Tracy Rea and musical director and choreographer Katie Conlan, this trio clearly put their hearts and souls into this year’s offering, making the most of all the wonderful abilities of a terrific cast.

Taking on the leading roles were Grace Guerin as The Snow Queen, Sophia Rea as Gerda, Patrick Craddock as Kai, Nanny Frostbite played by Kayla Kehoe, Goblin Troll Queen played by Katie Phelan, Anna played by Holly Harmon, while Kristoff was Ryan Jennings.

Memorable performances, too, from Emmy Nolan as Squeaks, Storyteller Paddy Behan, child storyteller Annie Moriarty, Oaken played by Sean Óg Ferry and the adorable little princess, Sophie, Isabelle, Saoirse and Megan.

And what would a panto in Carlow be without comic duo Madeline Doyle and Martia Ansbro, this time as the hilarious Snowball and Snowflake. The show also featured a huge cast of children and teenagers, who consistently perform their high-energy dance routines to perfection, their beaming smiles showing that they were loving every second.

Stunning costumes, lighting and a beautiful set added enormously to the show, including an actual snowfall – which led to squeals of delight from the youngest members of the audience.

Another amazing show from the Striking Productions crew, who no doubt are already plotting and scheming for even more in 2025!