SHINGING stars in Donegal want to sing and dance and sparkle in this year’s Toy Show Christmas special, RTE has revealed.
Several local families have already applied to appear on the popular edition of the Late Late Show, according to the national broadcaster.
A spokesperson told the Donegal News that, if selected from the initial draft of applicants, the lucky entertainer will then be called for live auditions.
With 96 days to go ’til Christmas from today (Sunday), the Toy Show was last night tight-lipped on just how many Donegal hopefuls have exactly submitted recorded performances.
Donegal’s young stars have been invited to sparkle on the Late Late Toy Show.
But its spokesperson said: “We cannot go into specific in terms of the number of applications but we say that interest in applications for this year’s Late Late Toy Show is strong.
“That is across the country, from all counties – including Donegal.”
She added: “Do you know a child that has that special Toy Show sparkle?”
RTE bosses launched their search in August for young entertainers from Donegal to wow audiences for the Late Late Toy Show special.
In recent years, the nation has fallen in love with Donegal children who appeared on the show like last year’s star TJ McDaid, from Drumkeen; Charles Gallagher, from Castlefinn, in 2023; Jack Beattie, from Raphoe, in 2020; Finlay Sheridan, from Rathmullan, in 2019; and Bobby Gallagher, from Mountcharles, in 2018.
A Toy Show spokesperson said: “The countdown to the most wonderful night of the year has officially begun.
“Host Patrick Kielty is gearing up for another unforgettable Late Late Toy Show night, promising mischief, mayhem and magical moments.”
Host Kielty said: “The stars of the Toy Show have always been our amazing kids.
“And this year we’re looking forward to them shining brighter than ever.”
A TV audience of 1.7 million watched last year’s Toy Show across the weekend.
Applications for the upcoming Christmas spectacular opened last Friday and close on September 27.