A new point on the Irish cultural map was created yesterday with the opening of the new Grand Canal Theatre in Dublin.
The largest capacity purpose built theatre opened with a performance by the Russian State Ballet of Swan Lake to a packed house. Among that house President Mary McAleese, Harry Crosbie, Paul Mc Guinness, Brenden Gleason, Daniel Libeskind (who designed the venue) and Paul Brady (who will perform there later in the year).
However it was Crosbie who had the first performance with a speech outlining and thanking all who helped bring the project to life. And for his vision and effort he was rewarded with the first rapturous applause and standing ovation. Of which I’m sure here will be many more to come.
The building itself has been well document including this culch.ie post but as a first time user i found it excellent. Easy to get to, in and around and it’s clear, like it’s big brother across the river, there hardly a bad seat in the house.
As for the ballet itself well I enjoyed it thoroughly however I’m not sure I am an expert to examine the quality of the dance itself. The RTE concert orchestra provided the music which was excellent. I’m a huge fan of the RTECO and they didn’t disappoint. The one issue I had was with the lighting which felt very harsh. Lighting state changes were far too bulky and dramatic and the follow spottting operation was terrible.
Having said all that the night was far more about the theatre itself and what it says about the future for Irish audiences and hopefully Irish performers. A packed program is already planned with west end hits such as hairspray and legend Gilbert O’Sullivan. With only a few Irish acts on the bill so far I do hope this raises the stakes for Irish performers allowing them as well as the stars o the world to be seen by an even great number audience.
As Loughlin Deegan, Artistic Director of the Dublin Theatre Festival tweeted it’s Game on now!
You can find more about Grand Canal Theatre on their website, facebook or twitter.
Really looking forward to When Harry Met Sally and Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. Finally a venue just down the road from me as well!
So much great stuff coming up there- Can’t wait to go have a look around.
Hope it works out.
Looks like quite the place, will check the schedule to see if anything is on while I’m in Dublin.