Bernard O'Shea: Five things you might not know about panto

Join me on a whimsical journey into the world of pantomime as I don my comedy crown and venture into UCH's Sleeping Beauty panto.

Bernard O'Shea as the King in the Sleeping Beauty panto at University Concert Hall, Limerick

For over two centuries, the tradition of pantomime, or "panto," has been delighting audiences of all ages with its unique blend of music, comedy, and interactive theatre. That was until I threw my dusty hat into the ring. This year, I've joined the cast and crew of UCH's "Sleeping Beauty" panto.

From its humble beginnings in the United Kingdom, panto has spread its infectious charm across the globe, including the Emerald Isle. To gain a deeper insight into this cherished form of entertainment, I sat down with Richie Hayes, a seasoned entertainer with a career spanning 24 years. Richie's name has become synonymous with television, theatre, and pantomime, and he's here to reveal five fascinating insights into the world of panto, shedding light on the meticulous planning, diverse skills required, intensive rehearsals, physical demands, and its pivotal role in Ireland's theatrical landscape. "Oh yes, he did" (Apologies, Richie)