Posted 17.4.25

Top Must Visit Theatres in Dublin 2025

Dublin has got a vibrant and captivating theatre scene. From the iconic Abbey Theatre to the modern Bord Gáis Energy Theatre Dublin's theatres offer a diverse range of performances that cater to all tastes. Whether you like old stories, modern plays, contemporary dramas, or those big, fun musicals with singing and dancing, Dublin's theatres have something for everyone. They're all about showing off the best of Irish creativity, and you're bound to have an amazing time!

1. Abbey Theatre

26/27 Lower Abbey Street, Dublin 1, D01 K0F1

Located on the corner of lower Abbey Street and Marlborough Street, the Abbey Theatre is the National Theatre of Ireland. The Abbey Theatre was founded as the national theatre for Ireland by W.B. Yeats and Lady Gregory in 1904 - Created by visionaries, to hail as an arena for art and ideas. The theatre is the host to a plethora of plays, theatre, comedy and music concerts from international artists.

2. Bord Gáis Energy Theatre

Docklands, Dublin 1

The Bord Gáis Energy Theatre, situated in the Docklands of Dublin, is a performing arts venue. The theatre is Ireland's largest fixed-seat theatre, holding up to 2,111 people. The theatre opened in March 2010 with The Russian State Ballet featuring stars from the Bolshoi performing Swan Lake. The Bord Gáis Energy Theatre has become an audience favourite with its outstanding sound quality, beautiful décor and iconic architecture. Planning to stay in a hotel near Bord Gáis? Plan your stay at Maldrons and make it a memorable one. Plus, save more on every room, every night when you book direct. Whether you're here for a short stay or an extended visit, rest assured that our commitment to exceptional service is nothing short of extraordinary.  Welcome to a place where every moment is crafted to create unforgettable memories for you and your loved ones, it starts here.

3. The Gaiety Theatre

South King Street, Dublin 2

The Gaiety theatre is located on South King Street, just off Grafton Street. Opened on 27th November 1871, this theatre in Dublin City has remained true to its vision of presenting the highest quality musical and dramatic entertainment. The Gaiety theatre is one of Dublin’s longest established theatres in continuous production, maintaining its presence as the city’s premier venue for popular musical shows, opera, ballet, dance and drama.

4. The Gate Theatre

1 Cavendish Row, Dublin 1

The Gate Theatre was established as a theatre in 1928, offering Dublin audiences a first introduction to the world of European and American avant-garde theatre, as well as vibrant productions from the modern and classic Irish repertoire. The theatre is situated on Parnell Street about 6 minutes’ walk from Maldron Hotel Parnell Square, and has been artistically and architecturally, a landmark building for over 250 years.

5. 3Olympia Theatre

72 Dame Street, Dublin 2

The Olympia Theatre, branded since 2021 for sponsorship purposes as the 3Olympia Theatre, is a concert hall and theatre venue. The building first opened as “Dan Lowrey’s Star of Erin Music Hall”, in 1879, on Monday 22nd December. In 1923 After the Easter Rising, the venue had yet another re-invention, this time emerging as The Olympia Theatre, presenting drama, opera, ballet, as well as films, oratorio, and pantomime. Stay in our hotel near Olympia Theatre - the perfect base for exploring Dublin City and the surrounding county.

6. Smock Alley Theatre

Exchange Street Lower, Temple Bar, Dublin 8

The current Smock Alley Theatre is a 21st-century theatre, converted from a 19th-century church building, incorporating structural material from an 18th-century theatre building, and built on the site of the 17th century Theatre Royal, Dublin.  350 years after it was first built the theatre was carefully and lovingly restored to become Dublin’s Oldest Newest Theatre. It was once again a bustling hub of theatre, song, dance, art and creativity.

7. Project Arts Centre Dublin

39 East Essex Street, Temple Bar, Dublin 2

Situated in Temple Bar, Project Arts Centre is a multidisciplinary arts centre that hosts visual arts, theatre, dance, music, and performance. The centre was founded in 1967, and since then it has been a home, hub and hive for adventurous artists and audiences. Project Arts Centre is committed to putting audiences at the heart of its artistic planning by supporting diverse artists to make and present work that speaks to the complexities of contemporary life in Ireland.

8. Samuel Beckett Theatre

Samuel Beckett Theatre, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2

The Samuel Beckett theatre is the campus theatre of Trinity Colleges School of Creative Arts. The theatre showcases the work of academics, practitioners and students within the school during the academic year, as well as hosting visits from some of the most prestigious dance and theatre companies from Ireland and abroad perform there. So, you can see all sorts of different shows, from brand new plays to classic ones.  On that note, did you know that our stunning four-star Samuel Hotel, an addition to Dublin's vibrant docklands opened its doors to its first customers in April 2022 and is name after both the nearby Bridge and the renowned Irish playwright Samuel Beckett.

9. The New Theatre

43 Essex Street East, Temple Bar, Dublin 2

The New Theatre was founded in 1997, to create a space for developing writers, actors, directors, and technicians to hone their craft. The New Theatre is a small 66-seat theatre located in the historical and cultural quarter of Temple Bar. The New Theatre is a fantastic spot for those who appreciate intimate, thought-provoking performances. It's especially popular with young adults and theatre enthusiasts who enjoy seeing emerging artists and contemporary, often experimental, plays. If you're looking for a theatre experience that sparks conversation and offers a fresh perspective, The New Theatre is definitely worth exploring.

Dress code while visiting Theatres in Dublin

There isn't a strict dress code while visiting theatres in Dublin. While comfortable, neat attire is perfectly acceptable, many theatregoers enjoy the opportunity to dress up. Therefore, you have the flexibility to choose what makes you feel most comfortable and confident, whether that's casual or more formal.

Conclusion

Dublin's theatres offer a rich cultural experience for all ages, from families and couples to individuals enjoying a show by themselves. With a diverse range of performances, these venues provide an inclusive glimpse into the city's vibrant arts scene. If you're passionate about music and seeking the best venues in Dublin, be sure to explore our article dedicated to Dublin's top music venues.