Barnstorm Theatre Company is celebrating its 35th anniversary with a special presentation of The Ice Child, a thought-provoking and imaginative production by acclaimed playwright Mike Kenny, running at the Watergate Theatre, Kilkenny, from 11- 21 November 2026.
A moving story about growing up different, The Ice Child invites audiences into a world of fairy-folk, stolen babies and a child who struggles to find his place in a world that does not understand him.
You can’t trust the fairy-folk. They stole the baby and left the Ice Child in its place. Unlike other children, the Ice Child is lost in a world that isn’t made for him. He doesn’t understand it, and it doesn’t understand him. He doesn’t know how to play, the other children make fun of him, and even a simple hug or cuddle is impossible. He’ll melt.
This is the story of the Ice Child. A story about growing up different. A story told by the fairies about people. A people story.
Through its imaginative storytelling, The Ice Child explores themes of difference, belonging, identity and acceptance, inviting audiences to consider what it means to grow up feeling out of place. Blending the magic of fairy tales with a deeply human story, the production offers children and adults alike an opportunity to reflect on how we treat those who seem different from ourselves.
The Ice Child features a cast of Muireann Ryan as ONE / PEGGY, John Rice as TWO / JOHNNY, Gráinne Holmes Blumenthal as THREE / JANET & Peter O’Leary as FOUR / TAM.
The presentation is particularly significant for Barnstorm Theatre Company as it marks 35 years of championing theatre for children and young people. Since its establishment, Barnstorm has played an important role in nurturing young imaginations, creating opportunities for creative expression and bringing high-quality theatre to audiences in Kilkenny, throughout Ireland and the world.
To celebrate this milestone, audiences are also invited to explore a retrospective exhibition in the Watergate Theatre Gallery, offering a look back at Barnstorm’s 35-year journey, its productions and its enduring commitment to young audiences.
Suitable for audiences aged 8 – 14 years, The Ice Child will feature dedicated school performances alongside family shows, giving young people and families the opportunity to experience meaningful live theatre while celebrating the company’s remarkable anniversary.
Performance Information
The Ice Child
By Mike Kenny
Presented by Barnstorm Theatre Company
Dates: 11 – 21 November 2026
Venue: Watergate Theatre, Kilkenny
Duration: 60 minutes
Age Recommendation: 8+
School Performances
Wednesday 11 – Friday 13 November
Monday 16 – Friday 20 November
Daily performance times: 10am and 12.30pm
Family Performances
Sunday 15 November: 1pm
Saturday 21 November: 1pm and 3.30pm
Gala Performance Sunday 15 November at 5pm
Barnstorm 35th Anniversary Retrospective Exhibition
The retrospective exhibition will run in the Watergate Theatre Gallery, celebrating 35 years of Barnstorm Theatre Company and its contribution to theatre for young audiences.
Ticket Prices
- Standard: €15
- Concession: €10
- Family of four: €45
- School groups: €10 per person, with teachers admitted free
Booking fees may apply to card payments.
