RTÉ has been slammed for “seriously poor communication” when it cancelled the Toy the Show Musical over the weekend. 

The broadcaster cancelled the musical but not before many children and their families had arrived at the venue and been seated. 

“My daughter and I drove on treacherous roads from Galway to attend with my sister and my niece at the weekend,” Emma texted Lunchtime Live. 

“We were seated when we were told it was cancelled. I seriously believe that they could have provided better notification than that. 

“We went into the Spencer Hotel afterwards and when we were leaving the next show had the very same experience; again seated and then cancelled. 

“I’ve no doubt the kids and the cast were equally as upset that they couldn’t perform - that’s not my issue - but seriously poor communication about the cancellation is.” 

Cancelled after it was due to start

Jason’s children had a similar experience; they had travelled all the way from Westmeath to see the show only to be told at the last minute it was cancelled. 

“They travelled up with their grandparents; the grandparents wanted to surprise them on Saturday for Christmas,” Jason said. 

“So, they travelled up and they got to the show; they went in… and got some goodies and drinks.” 

The show was due to start at 4 o’clock but failed to start on time. 

“At about 4.10, a lady came out and said the show was cancelled,” Jason continued. 

“So, a lot of disappointment of course… They said that some of the kids were sick - which we really understand - and of course the show can’t go ahead if the kids are sick. 

“But it’s just the way the management went about it; I presume they would have known a little earlier. 

“Maybe they shouldn’t have allowed people to buy merchandise and drinks and stuff like that?” 

In a statement, RTÉ said: 

"It is with deep regret that due to illness in the cast and crew that RTÉ Toy Show the Musical had to cancel its afternoon and evening shows… The team did everything possible to avoid this situation and are truly sorry for the inconvenience caused.

"Our ticketing partner, Ticketsolve will be in touch as soon as possible with those with tickets for cancelled shows regarding rescheduling or refund options.

"We will announce any changes to planned shows from Tuesday as soon as we have more information on the impact of illness on the cast and crew. Again, very sincere apologies for the inconvenience caused."

Main image: The Toy Show Musical. Picture by: RTÉ.