A Dublin drag queen has expressed her delight at performing to full audiences with no restrictions
Dame Stuffy, a drag performer and self-proclaimed Queen of Ballymun, said it was great to see people "living their lives without fear" of Covid-19.
Speaking after her Saturday night show in the Red Cow Inn, which included an appearance from top Dublin comedian Enya Martin, the performer told Dublin Live: "It was brilliant.
"It felt so normal for the first time in two years. Everyone was in great form and there was a queue out the door.
"People were finally out living their lives without the fear of Covid hanging over them."
The drag star added: "[The government] announced it so quick. They didn't give much businesses much time to get staff and stock.
"I was lucky where I was. We'd usually do a show from 4pm to 6pm but we did 6pm to 8pm because people didn't have to be off the premises after 8."
Dame Stuffy was supposed to take on the role of Aladdin in the Axis Panto this month, but cancelled the shows due to the enforced reduced capacity and other restrictions.
There are now plans in the works for shows in April, which Dame Stuffy says will be an "Easter Panto".
Meanwhile, popular South William Street pub Grogans revealed that they were delighted to "have atmosphere back" after the Covid restrictions were dropped.
Grogans bar manager Daniel Smith told Dublin Live: "We didn't expect it. We expected a small easing of restrictions but not the light switch to be flicked and everything going.
"Obviously a great surprise and delighted, just chuffed and made up."
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