Also known as the National Theatre of Ireland, Abbey Theatre first raised its curtains in December of 1904 under the tutelage of WB Yeats and Lady Gregory. The duo staged controversial shows in an attempt to further the nationalist cause. Renowned designer Jean-Guy Lecat has since updated the auditorium, removing awkward corners with obscured views and adding elegantly sloping seating. To this day, the theatre retains a focus on Irish works (to consistently mixed reviews). The theatre also offers backstage tours every Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday. In addition to information about the current production and the process of running a national theatre, guides share the history and cultural significance of the Abbey.
Time Out tip: Stick around after the show for conversations with the directors, producers, and performers known as “Abbey Talks.” If you can’t make it, you can listen to a podcast version on the theatre’s SoundCloud account. Of all the lobby artwork, take special note of the plaque which names several theatre actors and artists that took up arms in the nearby O'Connell Street post office during the 1916 Easter Rising.
Nearby:
The Grand Central Bar: For wine, pints, and tipples in a refurbished bank building
The Rolling Donut: For uniquely-flavored donuts handmade at a tiny kiosk for 40 years
The Wiley Fox: For sizable, affordable snacks in a neon-lit watering hole