A Newry arts group celebrating its 50th year says it will not hold its annual charity performance due to a council’s major refurbishment of its stage.
The Newry Panto has been a popular festive fundraiser for worthy causes for many generations, but the show might not go on.
The host venue at Newry Town Hall is currently undergoing a revamp as part of a £23m investment in theatre and arts, but the council says it is offering alternative venues.
On its social media page Newry Panto says: “Dear Panto Family and Friends.
“We just wish to let you know that due to the refurbishment of the Town Hall we are unable to hold our Annual Pantomime in Jan 2027.
“We will miss you all, but hope to be back on stage at the earliest opportunity.
“In the meantime have a Happy Halloween and even Happier Merry Christmas and when we know when we can get back on stage we will let you know.
“God Bless and Love to you all. Talk Soon and look after yourselves.”
The Local Democracy Reporting Service contacted Newry Panto.
The annual panto has been a significant source of funding for local charities over the years such as the Newry Hospice who could now lose out this panto season.
The golden celebration of Newry Panto Players was touched with sadness at the passing of its guiding light Charlie Smyth (92) last November, but the show did go on the following January.
The cancellation will impact the community as hundreds of local primary school children take part in the panto each year as ‘Tiny Tots’ on stage and hundreds more attend special school shows before numerous public performances.
A council spokesperson said: “Newry, Mourne and Down District Council is aware of the concerns raised by the Newry Panto Group regarding the temporary closure of Newry Town Hall.
“The council has been engaging with all user groups as part of the forward planning for the refurbishment of Newry Town Hall and its subsequent closure to facilitate the completion of these important works.
“The council has identified a range of local venues that may be suitable for events and performances, including its own facility at Warrenpoint Town Hall, as well as local schools, community centres and conference facilities across the Newry area.”
The new theatre and construction at Newry Town Hall and Sean Hollywood Arts Centre is due to be completed by spring 2028.
The spokesperson added: “The council welcomes continued engagement with all affected groups in order to minimise disruption to their programming during the refurbishment period.
“It remains committed to supporting local arts groups and organisations and will continue to work with user groups throughout the duration of the refurbishment works.”
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