09/10/2026
They're behind you Michael.....
Kerry TD Michael Healy-Rae joins panto characters Lottie & Dottie to launch the inaugural 'Cindrella' - The Kerry Panto, which takes place over four weekends in November and December at Killarney Racecourse as part of the Christmas in Killarney programme. Deputy Healy-Rae said he had been in many pantos in his time but this will surely be the funniest as he allowed himself a wry smile.
More information on killarneyracecourse.ie/cinderella/
Video: Don MacMonagle
This Christmas, follow a sprinkle of fairy dust to Killarney Racecourse, where the world’s favourite fairytale is getting a magical Kerry makeover! Running this November and December over four weekends, The Kerry Panto at Killarney Racecourse will host its debut family show, Cinderella - a heartwarming holiday adventure packed with local humour, sparkling transformations, and festive magic for all ages.
Directed by Lily MacMonagle of The MACademy Performing Arts and choreographed by Katrina Galvin of Sparrow Dance Academy, the production brings together a stellar cast of local talent to launch a brand-new holiday tradition for the region.
Deep within Ross Castle, Cinderella dreams of a life beyond endless chores and the demands of her wicked stepmother, Malaria. With outrageous stepsisters Lottie and Dottie causing chaos, even the kindest girl in Killarney could use a little help.
Luckily, her loyal best friend Tickles is never far away, usually with a terrible joke, a cheeky grin, and absolutely no idea what trouble he’s about to get himself into! When Prince Harold announces a royal ball at Muckross House, Cinderella dares to dream that her moment has finally arrived. But getting there will take more than a beautiful dress.
Enter Molls: a fairy godmother from beyond the Gap of Dunloe, with a wand, a mission, and plenty of Kerry attitude!
From the enchanted woods of Killarney National Park to a ballroom fit for a princess, audiences can expect soaring songs, dazzling dance numbers, and side-splitting laughter. With plenty of chances to cheer the heroes, boo the baddies, and shout "She’s behind you!", Cinderella celebrates friendship, kindness, and the magic of believing in yourself.
Karl McCay, General Manager of Killarney Racecourse, commented,
"We are thrilled to announce our first-ever Christmas Show at Killarney Racecourse. Killarney already sets the standard for festive celebrations with its magical parades, Santa’s grotto, Christmas markets, and Killarney on Ice. We are delighted to build on this tradition with our debut production of Cinderella. Directed by Lily MacMonagle and featuring a wonderfully talented local cast, we can’t wait to welcome you to this exciting new holiday experience."
Director, Lily MacMonagle, added,
"We are so delighted to bring the first professional panto to Killarney for families to enjoy this Christmas. The team and cast involved are incredible, and we cannot wait to sprinkle Christmas panto magic all over Killarney and Kerry this year. The laughs are like no other—it’s made for your child and your granny, with a joke and a dance for everyone. On a personal note, it’s fantastic to offer a pre-Christmas show where families can come together and really get into the festive spirit."
Tickets go on sale today, Friday, October 9th, at 9am priced reasonably at €17 for a child ticket, €20 for an adult ticket, and €66 for a family of four. Dates are expected to sell fast so early booking is advised. Early booking is strongly advised as tickets are expected to sell fast.
For tickets and more information visit: www.killarneyracecourse.ie/cinderella/ and for full Christmas in Killarney program of Christmas events in Killarney visit www.christmasinkillarney.com
Christmas in KillarneyKillarney Races@followersMichael Healy-Rae T.D.Jackie Healy-Rae