The Drogheda Pantomime Society is celebrating its 75th anniversary this year and the milestone has been recognised with the selection of two of its best known performers, Fiona O’Connell and John Kirwan, as Grand Marshals for the Drogheda St Patrick’s Day Parade.
The theme for this year’s parade is Once Upon a Panto, reflecting the long tradition of pantomime in the town and the contribution the society has made to local entertainment since it was founded in 1950.
Fiona O’Connell first became involved in pantomime at just six years of age and went on to perform in many productions before taking on leading roles including Principal Boy. In recent years she has produced several shows including Snow White, Thumbelina and Peter Pan. She also produced the society’s recent sold out production of Beauty and the Beast and is already planning the 2027 production of Sinbad the Sailor.
John Kirwan joined the society in 1979 and became best known for his role as Simple Simon, a character he performed for decades. His energetic performances and comedic style made him a favourite with audiences and he continues to be closely associated with the role.
The society itself was founded by the local legendary Panto trio, Jimmy Fagan, Joe “Tec” Caffrey and Mick “Skuller” Leech. Their first production, Little Red Riding Hood, was staged at the Gate Cinema on Narrow West Street and proved so successful that pantomime quickly became an annual tradition in Drogheda.
Over the decades the society performed in several venues including the Gate Cinema, St Peter’s Parochial Centre, the Europa Hotel, the TLT and more recently the Barbican Centre on William Street.
Both Fiona and John first appeared together in the 1979 production of Mother Goose and since then have played many roles on stage while also contributing behind the scenes with producing and writing shows.
The Drogheda Pantomime Society has remained a key part of the town’s cultural life for more than seven decades, bringing community based theatre and family entertainment to thousands of people each year.
Their achievements were recently recognised by President Catherine Connolly who wrote to the committee praising the society’s contribution to the town and wishing them continued success.
A special exhibition celebrating the society’s 75 year history will be on display in Scotch Hall from March 14 to March 17.
Speaking about being chosen as Grand Marshals, Fiona O’Connell thanked the St Patrick’s Day committee for recognising the work of the society and said it was a great honour for both herself and John to lead the parade.
John Kirwan also expressed his gratitude, saying the honour belongs to everyone who has volunteered their time over the past 75 years to bring the magic of pantomime to the people of Drogheda.
