The incomparable Adele King, better known to generations of audiences as the extraordinary Twink, is set to make a glittering return to panto this festive season. A true legend of Irish theatre, Twink will wave her wand as the Queen of the Fairies in this year’s much-anticipated Cinderella at Dublin’s Stadium Panto. She’ll join a sparkling cast including Alan Hughes as Sammy Sausages, Rob Murphy as Buffy, and Johnny Ward.

Speaking about her surprise comeback, Twink admitted she had firmly believed her panto days were behind her. “Well… it just proves you should never say never,” she laughed.

“I was absolutely set that I would never do panto again. But every year I go to Alan and Karl’s production, and when I saw last year’s fantastic show I told them, ‘You’ll never be able to top that!’ Alan looked at me and said, ‘Not unless we get you!’ It took them a good while to convince me. I’ve turned down countless offers over the years, but this one I couldn’t resist. I’m thrilled to be part of such a wonderful show.”

The production promises to blend tradition with cutting-edge flair. Thanks to dazzling A.I. wizardry, Twink’s role as Queen of the Fairies will be elevated with filmed sequences enhanced by all the bells and whistles modern technology can conjure. Yet, true to panto tradition, the show remains firmly rooted in family fun, with songs, slapstick, and plenty of “oh yes it is!”

Written by Ireland’s longest-serving panto writer, Karl Broderick, Cinderella boasts a powerhouse creative team: Paul Ryder on choreography, Daniel Maguire as director, and Ross O’Connor as musical director.

For Hughes, Ireland’s longest-standing professional panto star, this reunion carries extra magic: “This is very special for me. My very first panto role was alongside Adele, so having her in our show now is such an honour. It’s going to be spectacular.”

Once again, audiences can expect dazzling costumes, camp comedy, and heart-warming moments in what is always one of the highlights of Dublin’s festive season. Best of all, the production continues its commitment to accessibility, with one of the city’s best-value family tickets: just €99 for four (plus booking fee).

The Stadium Panto’s Cinderella runs from December 9 to January 4, with two performances daily. Tickets are on sale now at panto.ie.