Rose of Tralee review: Despite the shiny veneer, it still comes across like an expensive parish hall show

The Rose of Tralee, now a global event, faces a disconnect between its intended perception as a prestigious pageant and its more jovial, sometimes absurd reality.

Initially launched to boost local tourism post-war, the Rose of Tralee has evolved from a small budget event in 1959 to an extravagant international spectacle.

The contemporary presentation of the Rose of Tralee involves a larger, more colorful production with dual hosting, significantly amplifying its entertainment and viewership appeal.

While past hosts like Gay Byrne reflected the event's quaint roots, modern hosts like Kathryn Thomas and Dáithí Ó Sé illustrate a shift towards a more dynamic, albeit chaotic, presentation.

Read at Irish Independent