7 of The Best Theatres In Dublin

Dublin is an absolutely vibrant city where music, art and literature have their own place. Dublin is also home to some of the finest theatres in Europe. Famous playwrights have performed in this city over the generations, leaving an impressive mark on Ireland’s cultural heritage.

Dublin’s theatre scene offers something to everyone: from classic dramas to modern plays, without forgetting the world-class musicals. In this article we will explore 7 of The Best Theatres in Dublin, that every theatre enthusiast should visit!

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1) The Gaiety Theatre, A Jewel of Victorian Architecture

Official website

Location: South King Street, Dublin 2

One of the best theatres in Dublinb is the Gaiety Theatre opened in 1871, with the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland attending as the guest of honour, and since that year it has given people opera, musicals, drama, comedy, concerts, dance, festivals and pantomime. Over the years, it has attracted world-famous performers, from Luciano Pavarotti to Julie Andrews. Inside is simply beautiful with that old Victorian style seating, balconies, boxes, dark wood, red velvet and crystal chandeliers.

What to Expect: The Gaiety’s grand auditorium with its plush red velvet seats and intricate decor offers an immersive theatre experience. It’s the perfect place to enjoy big-name musicals, spectacular operas, and seasonal performances like the annual Christmas Pantomime, which is a must for families.

Tip: Don’t miss the legendary “Riverdance”! It is a show that often takes place here, featuring Ireland’s famous traditional dance performances.

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2) Abbey Theatre: The National Theatre of Ireland

Official website

Location: 26 Abbey Street Lower, North City, Dublin 1

The Abbey Theatre is the National Theatre of Ireland. The theatre was co-founded by several significant figures in the Dublin literary scene, most distinctly W.B. Yeats and Lady Gregory. At the beginning, in 1899, the Abbey Theatre was considered as the Irish Literary Theatre. Today, it is one of the main cultural reference points in Ireland and an important theatre in Dublin. The Abbey continues to produce new plays, as well as host discussions with living Irish writers.

What to Expect: The main stage of The Abbey Theatre offers a mix of classic and contemporary performances, often focusing on Ireland’s rich cultural heritage, while the smaller Peacock stage provides new and experimental works.

Tip: Check out their seasonal festivals which often feature performances of emerging playwrights!

3) The Gate Theatre: A Portal to World-Class Drama

Official website

Location: Cavendish Row, Dublin 1

The Gate Theatre is known for presenting a balanced mix of international plays and contemporary Irish performances. Established in 1928, the theatre grew out of the Gate Theatre Studio and its production was innovative and experimental. Many famous actors have gotten their start as a part of the Gate Theatre’s company, including the American director and performer Orson Welles.

What to Expect: The auditorium is intimate, ensuring that every seat has a good view. The productions are known for their high-quality acting and often have a slightly experimental edge, perfect for people that are looking for something more than the mainstream.

Tip: Keep yourself updated about their summer series, which often features famous actors from film and TV taking the stage.

4) 3Olympia Theatre: A Milestone for Live Performances

Official website

Location: 72 Dame Street, Dublin 2

The Olympia Theatre has been one of the best theatres in Dublin for concerts and performances since 1879. Particularly, the Olympia Theatre is best known as a music venue: artists like David Bowie, Adele and Arcade Fire held concerts here. Today, at the Olympia you can attend many shows for children, international plays and musical events.

What to Expect: The Olympia offers a diverse range of performances, including everything from classic dramas to rock concerts. This theatre is also known for hosting famous comedians and music legends, so it’s a great spot for more than just traditional theatre.

Tip: Try to catch one of their live music gigs: performing at the Olympia is considered a career highlight for many Irish musicians.

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5) The Bord Gáis Energy Theatre: Home of the Big Musicals

Official website

Location: Grand Canal Square, Docklands, Dublin 2

Another one of the best theatres in Dublin is the Bord Gáis Energy Theatre: an iconic architectural landmark designed by world-renowned architect Daniel Libeskind. It is the perfect theatre for fans of large-scale productions and big-name musicals. Opened in 2010, it is a venue that brings major international shows like Les Misérables, Wicked, and The Lion King to Irish audiences.

What to Expect: With a seating capacity of over 2,000, the Bord Gáis Energy Theatre offers a spacious and luxurious experience for theatre enthusiasts. The venue also hosts ballet, opera, and family-friendly shows throughout the year.

Tip: You may want to book your tickets well in advance, as popular shows often sell out months ahead of time.

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6) The Project Arts Centre: Dublin’s Avant-Garde Venue

Official website

Location: 39 East Essex Street, Temple Bar, Dublin 2

On the list of the best theatres in Dublin, we must absolutely mention the Project Arts Centre: it is a multidisciplinary arts centre based in Temple Bar, which hosts visual arts, theatre, dance, music, and performance. This venue is known for its forward-thinking approach to performance art. Opened in 1966, it’s Ireland’s first and busiest arts centre, currently presenting over 600 events a year to an audience of over 50.000 people.

What to Expect: The Project Arts Centre hosts everything from provocative theatre productions to avant-garde dance performances and visual art installations: so expect the unexpected!

Tip: Check out their calendar of events, you will be attracted by their initiatives. It’s really the place to go if you’re seeking a more unconventional theatre experience in Dublin.

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7) Smock Alley Theatre: Where History and Modernity Collide

Official website

Location: 6-7 Exchange Street Lower, Temple Bar, Dublin 8

The Smock Alley Theatre is the oldest of the best theatres in Dublin, dating back to 1662. Originally built as a theatre, it later served various roles, including as a church. Now the former church near the Liffey River has once again returned to its artistic beginnings. It offers a different lineup of dance, drama and other creative encounters.

What to Expect: Smock Alley Theatre also hosts workshops and community events. As well as if you are looking for a unique venue for hire in Dublin, this theatre is just for you. They organise weddings, launch events, conferences, seminars, and much more.

Tip: Explore the theatre’s crypt and mediaeval walls before the show!

Dublin’s theatres sure will leave you a lasting impression, then do not wait and arrange to attend a show in these wonderful venues! It doesn’t matter where you choose to go, you’ll find incredible energy, talent and passion for performance.

Plan your visit and tell me in the comments how the experience was!