Digital exhibit records longstanding tradition of theatre and pantomime in Castlecomer - Kilkenny Live

Last Tuesday, Kilkenny County Library Service marked the launch of the latest addition to their Kilkenny Digital Archive at Castlecomer Library.

This digital exhibit is a collaborative venture with the Deenside Players and aims to record the longstanding tradition of local theatre and pantomime in the Castlecomer community.

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Over 30 programmes have been digitised to date along with some photos of various productions over the last 60 plus years. 

Castlecomer Library staff, Aideen O’Reilly and Luke Brennan, worked diligently to organise and digitise these programmes and photos to make them available for everyone to enjoy on the Kilkenny Digital Archive. 

The launch was attended by Deenside Player committee members past and present, current cast members and local elected representatives, Cllr Pat Fitzpatrick and Cllr John Brennan.  

Current chairperson of Deenside Players, Chubby Brennan, noted how important this project is to acknowledge the significant contribution made by the past members of the Deenside Players and also to record this history for future generations.

Former Dame, Fonsie Mealy was also invited to speak and he recalled some memorable moments and characters from previous pantomimes. 

Leas Cathaoirleach of Castlecomer Municipal District, Cllr John Brennan and Cllr Pat Fitzpatrick were delighted that Kilkenny County Council was supporting digitisation projects such as this one and has recently provided funding for a new archivist whom will play a pivotal role in preserving historical records for the future.

Speaking at the launch, Branch Manager of Castlecomer Library Karyn Deegan said that 'this project highlights the valuable role the public library provides as a custodian of history, culture and heritage and its ability to make that accessible to all using technology'.

"These programmes and old photos will no doubt evoke many wonderful memories of people and businesses long past," she added.

To view this online exhibit, visit the Kilkenny Digital Archive at 'digital-archive.kilkenny.ie'.

This is an ongoing project and if anyone has any programmes from the Deenside Players Castlecomer Pantomime from previous years, that they wish to submit for inclusion, please contact Karyn Deegan, Branch Manager Castlecomer Library, on 056 4440561 or email 'castlecomer@kilkennylibrary.ie'.