Joe Conlan Retires as Gaiety TheaterS Beloved Dame After 14 Years
After a remarkable 34-year association with the Gaiety Theatre, and a celebrated 14-year run as its iconic dame, actor Joe Conlan is set to take his final bow. Conlan will conclude his tenure with tonight’s performance as Nana Potts in Beauty and the Beast.
Conlan’s journey with the Gaiety began at the age of 18, initially working behind the scenes before ascending to the stage. He fondly recalls starting as a “head tree” at the back of the stage, surrounded by a vibrant community of performers, and culminating in leading the show as the beloved dame.
“It’s been a joy,” Conlan shared with RTÉ News. “My aim was not to be the Gaiety dame. But to think back to being up at the very back of the stage… and now to be up the front closing the show.”
The decision to step down comes as Conlan seeks to explore new creative avenues. He expressed a desire to embrace new challenges and opportunities, stating, “One door closes and another is going to open to try all those new challenges. If you don’t try them,how do you know?”
conlan’s departure marks the end of an era for the Gaiety Theatre panto,leaving behind a legacy of laughter and cherished memories for audiences across generations.
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