Galway City Council must support re-opening of An Taibhdhearc

The re-opening of Ireland’s national Irish language theatre is vital for Galway’s cultural and artistic heritage, according to Green Party Senator, Niall Ó’Brolcháin.
Senator Ó’Brolcháin is calling on the City Council to support the re-opening of An Taibhdhearc in Middle Street, which has established an international reputation as an artistic centre since its inception in 1928.

“The historic and cultural value of An Taibhdhearc cannot be underestimated,” said Senator Ó’Brolcháin. It has been operating from Middle Street for the past 82 years and is Ireland’s national Irish language theatre. It is a custom built venue and many local families have been involved with the theatre in some way. It is vital to keep this tradition going and to maintain the integrity of Middle Street as a cultural destination.

An Taibhdhearc is renowned also for its promotion of the Irish language and serves as a valuable tourist attraction.

I will be impressing upon the Council that the theatre should be considered a key part of the city’s cultural quarter and will be urging the council to ensure that this is part of the City Plan. The Council must provide the funding to get An Taibhdhearc up and running again and I have written to the City Manager in that regard,” he said.