by Saoirse Anton

It’s been a while since I have written one of these columns! A year, in fact.

For a lot of that year I stepped out of the loop of theatre news and happenings, I went longer than I’ve ever gone without setting foot in a theatre, and have only recently been stepping back into this world. For lots of us it is very common to have long interludes between visits to the theatre, and sometimes it can be daunting to step back in when you have been out of the loop. Luckily, your friendly neighbourhood theatre columnist has returned to furnish you with recommendations! So read on for my advice on what to see, whether you are a seasoned theatre-goer, returning after a hiatus, or venturing into a venue for the first time.

If you want something unusual…

Tír an Traonaigh

Belmullet, Co. Mayo - 19-23 August 2026

In a new collaboration with An Taibhdhearc, Performance Corporation promise to take you on a journey with this new production, quite literally. They invite you to “Step aboard our bus for an unforgettable theatrical journey through the spectacular landscape of North Mayo, where family, biodiversity and the future of the Irish language collide.” In what looks set to be a fascinating blend of theatre, music, dance and visual spectacle, Tír an Traonaigh (Land of the Corncrakes) tells the story of two sisters feuding over land, nature and “a noisy little bird.”

If you want a feast…

Try a festival!

We are already deep into festival season, with Kilkenny Arts Festival currently underway, and several others on the horizon, including Dublin Fringe Festival, Dublin Theatre Festival, Baboró Festival and the Belfast International Arts Festival, to name a few. A festival is always a good way to dip a toe back into the world of live performance – you can often find a selection of free events, and a varied programme can hold something for every mood. We’ll cover my pick of the Dublin Fringe Festival and Dublin Theatre Festival programmes next month, but if you’re looking for an immediate festival fix, check out the last few days of the Kilkenny Arts Festival. Particularly intriguing are Anchorpoint, produced by detached.collab, The Last Tape from Gare St Lazare, and Jack Phelan’s audio-visual show Rift.

If you want something to make you think…

Synapses

The New Theatre, Dublin - 19-21 August 2026

Described as “honest, dynamic and charming” by The Independent, Gúna Nua’s Synapses at the New Theatre is a play exploring the realities of young families. It follows the story of a divorced couple who are trying to find a better way to live after finding themselves arguing constantly over money, access and parenting style. Sure to be thought-provoking and engaging, Synapses runs at The New Theatre from 19-21st August.

If you want a musical …

An tÉalú

Townhall Theatre, Galway - 29 August 2026

A musical is always a good bet to get you back into the theatre, and what better than a brand new musical? An tÉalú is a new Irish-language musical from Seán Óg Ó Duinnin that tells the story of rebellious nursing-home resident Síle and her friends as they attempt to break out of Lios Álainn nursing home. Promising to be an entertaining evening, An tÉalú is for Gaeilgóirs and non-Irish speakers alike, with subtitles throughout to ensure everyone gets to enjoy the show.

If you want a breath of fresh air…

The Gathering Field

Burthon’s Field, Curtlestown, Wicklow - 23 August 2026

You don’t have to go indoors to go to the theatre! Make the most of the summer weather and head on down to Edwina Guickan’s The Gathering Field as part of The Shaking Bog Festival in Wicklow. This family-friendly event promises a joyful celebration of Lúghnasa with traditional games, a ceilí and performances from fourteen renowned musicians and dancers.

If you want to revisit a classic…

Catalpa & The Catalpalyst

Civic Theatre Tallaght 19th August and Smock Alley Theatre 25-29th August

Donal O’Kelly’s Catalpa is a classic of modern Irish theatre. First staged in 1995, Catalpa remains one of the best one-man plays I have seen, and O’Kelly is bringing it back to the stage this month at the Civic Theatre in Tallaght. Alongside this revival, he is also bringing a new work The Catalpalyst to Smock Alley Theatre. A creative re-exploration of for the 150th anniversary of the 1876 Catalpa whaleship rescue of six Irish prisoners from Fremantle, The Catalpalyst promises to be an urgent and insightful piece of theatre. Not to be missed!

If you want a family day out…

Colourings

Draíocht Theatre Blanchardstown, until 12th September 2026

Not strictly a theatre event, but it brings you in the door of Draíocht Theatre, Blanchardstown to celebrate their 25th Anniversary. Colourings is a new children’s exhibition by visual artist, Lucy Hill. Hill has reimagined her sketchbook drawings into soft sculptures alongside designer Orla Langan, accompanied by a soundscape by sound designer, Adam Kennedy. Designed to be an interactive exhibition, Colourings is accompanied by a programme of workshops and a creative response space. A beautiful introduction to visual art for the whole family to enjoy!

Whether you fancy a dance, some exciting audio-visual spectacle, or an intriguing play, head on down to your local venue and let’s get back into the theatre and take our seats together!