NEW-LOOK GREYSTONES THEATRE BRINGING GIGS, PLAYS AND MORE
THE NAME of a new 130 seat theatre, set to open its doors next month in Greystones, has been announced as Whale Theatre and they have a big name lined up to do one of its inaugural gigs.
Comedian Al Porter will be at Whale Theatre on Saturday, September 16, at 8 p.m. Tickets at €25 will be available at The Whale box-office on Saturday, August 19, between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. with just four tickets per purchaser.
Promising a packed programme of events including plays, screenings, concerts, cabaret and performance arts, the name was chosen by proprietor Ross McParland to reflect the creative energy that is associated with this magnificent creature.
To commemorate this cultural milestone, a 95 feet long mural commissioned by Ross and created by Russian artist, currently residing in Greystones, Irina Kuksova will be revealed in the centre of the town later in the month.
Ross acquired the building in 2014 and has spent the last year seeking ideas, suggestions, and recommendations from performers, artists, producers and directors. He also promises to unveil the many musicians, painters, actors, dancers and playwrights in Greystones.
Retaining renowned Wicklow designer, Sharon Ryle to advise on creating an intimate venue serving as a multipurpose theatre, Ross McParland will run the venue himself with a small team focused on fostering culture, creativity and community.
The space measures 400m2 and features a state of the art sound system, a full commercial kitchen and flexible stages and layout and space itself has been designed with a soft maritime theme.
Shortly, a new fifth floor penthouse will be constructed. Three duplex apartments will provide a resting place for visiting entertainers and other visitors through Airbnb. Ireland has a strong tradition of local theatres, there are some 350 venues dotted around the country but none in Greystones in recent years and so Whale Theatre will give art and drama a new home and focus point in the community. Plans also include supper club evenings and a film club.
The local support has been overwhelming and very encouraging so far and it is expected that Whale Theatre will be a big artistic and social success when the first season begins next month.
‘It’s a fantastic feeling to be part of reinventing this wonderful space and bringing arts to life in my hometown,’ said Ross.
‘It’s brought a great new challenge to my life and I’m getting to meet lots fascinating and inspiring people.’ The full autumn events programme will be revealed later in the month.