An Grianán Theatre Letterkenny
An Grianán Theatre is a modern arts and entertainment venue in Letterkenny in the North West of Ireland. Boasting a 383 capacity auditorium, this state of the art facility is committed to presenting the best in drama, comedy, music and much, much more. Over the years , An Grianán has worked in close partnership with other key players – both in county Donegal and nationally – to invigorate and develop the local arts scene.
Background
An Grianán Theatre opened its doors to the public in October 1999, and the official gala opening took place on 12th November 1999. Magic of the Musicals was the first show performed on the An Grianán stage –one of the largest stages in Ireland. The theater is operated and managed by the Letterkenny Theater Management Company Ltd. on behalf of Donegal County Council and Letterkenny UDC. The theater is open to the public all day and one can avail of the excellent café and bar, view art exhibitions or, of course, attend a show. An Grianán can also be used as a corporate venue, offering advanced technical and catering facilities. The foyers and public galleries are used as an exhibition space.
Facilities
The auditorium in an Grianán Theatre has 383 very comfortable seats on a sloping floor. It was designed to provide loads of legroom and clear sightlines to the stage from every seat. The theater also has one of Ireland’s largest stage areas and an impressive array of state-of-the-art technical facilities – from lighting to projection to sound. This makes it an ideal setting for getting any message across, and for people to concentrate on the topic at hand. The rehearsal room in an Grianán is the perfect place for staging more intimate meetings, training sessions, interviews, auditions and workshops. This highly flexible, fully equipped space accommodates up to 40 people or up to 25 for a round-table meeting. The theater has a cafe which is open all day, serving full meals, snacks and coffee. A full bar service is available before and after each performance. An Grianán has full facilities for people with disabilities including designated seating in the auditorium, lift and specially adapted WC. There is also an inductive loop hearing system. Hearing aids should be set to the ‘T’ feature. There is ample and spacious parking to the rear of the Theater, for both cars and coaches. Patrons can also take advantage of free Wi-Fi to stay in touch with the digital world.
The Barn
The Barn is located 5 miles to the west of Letterkenny in the gently rolling hills of the Swilly valley and is an ideal touring base for those who value privacy and tranquility
Alder Cottage
Alder cottage is located in the hills of Donegal, 3.5km from the village of Churchill and due to its location enjoys peace and privacy amid wonderful rugged countryside.
A Community Theater and Major Arts Venue
An Grianán Theater is both a community theater and major arts venue for the northwest. From the start it has been used as a venue for major local festivals and events. It is extensively used during the annual Earagail Arts Festival which is now recognised as one of the leading Irish arts and culture events. The theater was also used to host the Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann, in the summers of 2005 and 2006. In 2007 it hosted the International Pan Celtic Festival – a festival that celebrates celebrates the Celtic cultures of Wales, Scotland, Ireland, Cornwall, Brittany and the Isle of Man. An Grianán is distinctive amongst regional venues for its success as a theater producer. The theater has produced plays by writers such as Brian Friel, John B Keane, Cathal O Searcaigh and Paul Boyd. Its youth and education programme has also proved hugely successful.
Music and Comedy Venue
An Grianán has attracted a number of well-known musicians over the years – The Frames, Josh Ritter, Aslan, Sharon Shannon, Eddie Reader and David Kitt to name but a few. Top class comedians who have appeared at the venue include Dara Ó Briain, Jimmy Carr, Dylan Moran, Jason Byrne, Tommy Tiernan , and Ardal O’Hanlon