As readers of Hot Press know only too well, there’s nothing on earth quite like the collective pulse and electric energy of live music. From a rapper coordinating a mass bounce-along in a sweaty basement venue, to a singer-songwriter being offered perfect, pin-drop silence in a 1,000-capacity concert hall, the communal experience of a live show is as life-affirming as it gets.

Following the dark, pandemic-era days of shuttered venues and empty stages, the Irish music industry has bounced back with remarkable speed and determination – with gig-goers, artists, promoters and professionals from across the sector eager to make up for lost time. Whether they’re welcoming international innovators or homegrown stars-on-the-rise, venues around Ireland have been kicking off 2024 with unforgettable shows, ensuring the country’s reputation for live music has only continued to grow post-lockdown.

Of course, substantial challenges, such as high insurance costs, continue to have behind-the-scenes impacts – reminding us, yet again, to take nothing for granted when it comes to our favourite venues, and to recognise the crucial role they play in communities right across the country.

For musicians, a thriving and supportive live music scene has become increasingly vital. With the decline of album sales and the growth of streaming culture, many musicians now rely on live shows – and selling merch at those live shows – to make a living. On the plus side, this has resulted in artists forging deep, in-person connections with their fanbase like never before.

The diversity of Ireland’s music scene is also worth celebrating. The sounds and styles emerging from these shores continue to expand and develop –  but whether it’s an arena-sized space, or a centuries-old pub, venues in Ireland are more than capable of moving with the times.

Speaking of pub venues – there’s several special spots, often located in villages and towns off the beaten track, that have become sacred sites for live music in recent years. Proving that a magic atmosphere and supportive staff trumps size and spectacle every time, spots like Mike The Pies in Listowel, The Chambers Bar in Mullingar, and Connolly’s of Leap in West Cork are attracting music lovers from near and far – as well as renowned acts drawn to the special buzz of an intimate gig.

Of course, the vital role of bigger venues, and long-established musical strongholds in the cities of Ireland, must be recognised too. In Limerick, Dolan’s have been at the forefront of nurturing the Treaty City’s thriving music scene – while the Gleneagle INEC Arena has continued to keep Killarney an essential destination for big-name acts.

In recent months, there have also been whispers of new additions to Ireland’s live music scene – and this past year saw the launch of SILO, Ireland’s biggest electronic music venue, at the RDS in Dublin.

Whatever the future holds, it’s clear that live music is in safe hands in Ireland, thanks to our phenomenal venues and the thrillingly innovative people who operate them.

From destinations a DART-ride away, to gorgeous local gems to stop off at on your next Irish road trip, here are the must-visit venues of 2024...

3ARENA
North Wall Quay, Dublin 1
Tel: (01) 819 8888
3arena.ie
Regularly ranked among the top 10 busiest venues in the world, 3Arena is a testament to Dublin’s insatiable appetite for big gigs. This is where legendary rock acts and superstar pop artists come to strut their stuff. Once the old Point Depot, today it’s an ultra–modern facility with world–class acoustics in the reinvigorated Docklands. Launched in 2008, we still marvel at how it can host a truly immersive show while being an arena-sized venue – and there’s literally not a bad seat in the house.
Capacity: 13,000
Recent gigs: Niall Horan, Noah Kahan, The Smile
Upcoming gigs: Take That (April 22 & 23), Olivia Rodrigo (April 30 & May 1), Mitski (May 4)

3OLYMPIA THEATRE
72 Dame St, Temple Bar, Dublin 2
Tel: (01) 679 3323
3olympia.ie
One of the most revered venues in the capital, 3Olympia Theatre originally opened as a music hall in 1879. In more recent decades, it has hosted the legendary likes of David Bowie, Adele, R.E.M., Radiohead, and Foo Fighters – to name a few. A wonderfully atmospheric room with impeccable sound, the venue was voted the 2023 winner of the Hot Press Live Venue of the Year.
Capacity: 1,247 (fully seated), 1,600 (partially standing and seated)
Recent gigs: PinkPantheress, Lyra, KNEECAP
Upcoming Gigs: Somebody’s Child (April 12), Tate McRae (April 17 & 18), Flogging Molly (September 1)

THE ACADEMY 
57 Abbey Street Middle, Dublin 1
Tel: (01) 877 9999
theacademydublin.com
A well-established venue on the northside, The Academy hosts major acts in an intimate setting, with three spaces built for live music magic. There have been some legendary nights here over the years, featuring acts as varied as The Killers, Hozier, Macklemore, Black Pumas and Snoop Dogg. Elsewhere in the building, The Academy 2 and The Green Room are the places to be if you want a close-up view of stars-in-the-making.
Capacity: 850 (Main Room, including balcony)
Recent gigs: Ispíní na hÉireann, milk., Cascada
Upcoming gigs: Miles Kane (May 8), Danny Brown (May 29), Bowling for Soup (June 18 & 19)

The Script at The Academy. Copyright Trevor McGrath.

BUTTON FACTORY  
Curved St, Temple Bar, Dublin 2
Tel: (01) 670 9105
buttonfactory.ie
Situated in the heart of Temple Bar, this state-of-the-art venue has hosted a phenomenal selection of acts over the years, including some of the biggest bands in the world. Alongside the main venue, you’ll find Crowbar, which doubles as both a theatre bar and an additional music venue. More recently, the venue has also opened Crowbar Terrace – an 80-capacity bar and venue for intimate events. The Button Factory is also home to the renowned Centre Point club.
Capacity: 550 (Main Venue)
Recent gigs: NewDad, Chewie, Levellers
Upcoming gigs: SPRINTS (May 3 & 4), Hurray For The Riff Raff (May 10), The Staves (May 31 & June 1)

THE CHAMBERS BAR
44 Mount St, Mullingar, Co. Westmeath
Tel: (044) 934 4717
thechambersbar.ie
From Niall Horan to Joe Dolan, Mullingar has produced far more than its fair share of musical talent – so it’s no surprise that it’s also home to a brilliant live music venue like The Chambers Bar. With a large mural of James Joyce adorning the front of the pub, this spot stands out from the crowd on Mount Street – while inside, you can soak in captivating live music in a vibrant, cosy atmosphere. From ticketed events to regular live music and trad sessions, there’s something for everyone at The Chambers Bar.
Recent gigs: Zooropa (Dublin U2 Tribute), Mundy, Dizzy Lizzy
Upcoming gigs: Springsteen: A Tribute (April 12), Kíla (April 25), Red Hot Copy Peppers (May 3)

CONNOLLY’S OF LEAP
Main Street, Leap, Co. Cork
Tel: (086) 104 8377
connollysofleap.com
The self-described “tiny, intimate, third generation music venue” has reached mythic status over the course of its remarkable history, welcoming innovative artists from all over the world to the West Cork village. The original founders’ grandson reopened Connolly’s of Leap to widespread joy back in 2015, and in more recent years, opened up a new outdoor venue out the back – with both spaces kitted out with brilliant, custom-made sound systems.
Capacity: 150
Recent gigs: Acid Mothers Temple, Rachael Lavelle, Huun-Huur-Tu
Upcoming gigs: Brìghde Chaimbeul (May 1), Morgana (May 25), Ian Prowse (June 1)

COUGHLAN’S
7 Douglas Street, Cork
Tel: (021) 4961751
coughlans.ie
Established almost two centuries ago, Coughlan’s is steeped in history. The pub itself is a listed building, and if the stone walls of its much-loved beer garden could talk, they would confirm what we already know – that this venue delivers one of the finest nights out in the country. Having won 2020’s IMRO National Live Music Venue of the Year, Coughlan’s have made an authoritative step into the gig world, and they’ve contributed in no small way to Cork’s vibrant live music scene.
Capacity: 80
Recent gigs: Caoilian Sherlock, Niamh Regan, Seán Parnell
Upcoming gigs: The Love Buzz (April 26 & 27), Casey Black (May 2), Niall Connolly (June 30)

CYPRUS AVENUE
Caroline Street, Cork
Tel: (021) 427 6165
cyprusavenue.ie
Situated just above The Old Oak, Cyprus Avenue has become an increasingly popular spot in the city since it opened its doors back in 2003 – with Declan McKenna singing its praises in a recent issue of Hot Press. A place where live music memories are made, it’s an integral part of the Cork scene. For a more intimate gig experience, check out the venue’s second space, the 80-capacity Winthrop Avenue, which they opened in 2019.
Capacity: 500
Recent gigs: Boots & Kats, Overhead The Albatross, Kerri Chandler
Upcoming gigs: Mary Gauthier (April 12), Dea Matrona (May 18), Cardinals (May 26)

Pretty Happy at Gaza Fundraiser in Cyprus Avenue. Copyright Trevor McGrath.

DOLAN’S
4 Dock Road, Limerick
Tel: (061) 314 483
dolans.ie
In the game for over two decades, Dolan’s reputation continues to grow as the acts they welcome get bigger and bigger. Over the years, they’ve transformed a small quayside pub into a key music institution, made up of several venues, including The Warehouse, the Kasbah Social Club, and Upstairs at Dolan’s – while also presenting gigs in outdoor spaces, like Live At The Castle.
Capacity: 380 (Dolan’s Warehouse), 120 (Upstairs), 120 (Kasbah)
Recent gigs: Newton Faulkner, Amble, Anamoe Drive
Upcoming Gigs: Aslan (April 13), Niamh Bury (April 24), Le Boom (April 26)

GLENEAGLE INEC ARENA
Muckross Road, Killarney, Co. Kerry
Tel: (064) 667 1555
inec.ie
A stronghold of live entertainment in Munster, Ireland’s National Events Centre has hosted a multitude of world class acts since opening in 2000. With sell-out performances by artists ranging from Niall Horan to Hozier, the INEC is now officially recognised as one of the country’s leading venues. Able to switch effortlessly from the intimate to the arena–sized with its various spaces, the venue hosts a wide array of musicians, DJs, comedians, performers and more.
Capacity: 4,142
Recent gigs: Lyra, The Fureys, Foster & Allen
Upcoming Gigs: Gemma Hayes (April 19), Seán Keane (May 10), Christy Moore (June 21)

THE GRAND SOCIAL
35 Lower Liffey Street, Dublin 1
Tel: (01) 677 1224
thegrandsocial.ie
Spreading musical joy at the foot of the Ha’Penny Bridge, The Grand Social is one of the capital’s busiest and most respected hubs of live music. As well as welcoming the likes of Primal Scream, Jake Bugg, and Michael Kiwanuka over the years, the venue’s iconic Loft space played host to Hot Press’ acclaimed Up Close And Personal series.
Capacity: 300 (The Loft), 120 (The Ballroom)
Recent gigs: Ferris & Sylvester, Some One’s Sons, Backseat Drivers
Upcoming gigs: Food House (April 30), Willy Mason (May 3), Wolf Eyes (June 6)

NewDad at The Grand Social on May 24th, 2023. Copyright Tina Ackermann/ hotpress.com

HAWK’S WELL THEATRE
Temple Street, Sligo
Tel: (071) 916 1518
hawkswell.com
Now 42 years in operation, Hawk’s Well Theatre is a local space with a big, 21st century vision – welcoming international stars and homegrown acts alike, across multiple genres and styles. With major plans underway to further reinvigorate both the venue and its offerings, the theatre took home the top prize in the Connacht category at this year’s IMRO Live Music Venue of the Year Awards.
Capacity: 340
Recent gigs: Andy Irvine, Luke Thomas & The Swing Cats
Upcoming gigs: Mary Gauthier (April 14), Hothouse Flowers (April 27), Tom Robinson (May 4)

IMPERIAL
47 Main St, Cavan
Tel: (049) 437 3027
imperialbarmetric.com
Considered the home of live music in Cavan, The Imperial was crowned the overall winner at this year’s IMRO Live Music Venue Awards – coming out on top against some of the most prestigious spots in the country. Their upcoming events cover everything from top DJs to renowned folk acts, with something on their programme to suit all tastes.
Recent gigs: The Tumbling Paddies, Rhythm & Sticks, Queen,
Upcoming gigs: Kila (April 27), Garron Noon and Stephen “Cowboy” Kelly (May 4), Ceol (May 5)

JUDGE ROY BEANS
1 Edward St, Newbridge, Co. Kildare
Tel: (045) 438 077
judgeroybeans.ie
Judge Roy Bean isn’t just an award-winning steakhouse and bar – it’s also an acclaimed music venue and has provided a space for artists to rehearse and record since 2011. Their spectacular Upstairs venue has played host to both stand-alone gigs and special series, such as their acclaimed Summer of Music programme, which kept the spirit of live music alive through recorded performances when Covid-19 restrictions prevented audiences from attending. Located in the heart of Newbridge, Judge Roy Beans has welcomed some of the biggest names in Irish music, as well as hosting brilliant tribute nights.
Capacity: 300
Recent gigs: These Charming Men, Mac Fleetwood, Ruaile Buaile
Upcoming gigs: Damien Dempsey (May 4), IE/DC (May 25), Guns Reloaded (August 31)

Rónán Ó Snodaigh with Kíla at Judge Roy Beans. Copyright: Ray Keogh

KAVANAGH’S BAR & VENUE
28 Main Street, Portlaoise, Co. Laois
Tel: (057) 862 1744
kavanaghsportlaoise.com
Established as a bar and grocery shop over a century ago by the current owner’s great-grandparents, Edward and Margaret Ramsbottom, Kavanagh’s Bar & Venue is reportedly the oldest family-run pub on Portlaoise’s Main Street. In addition to their reputation for live music – having welcomed a dazzling array of lauded artists – they’re also well-known for their comedy shows.
Capacity: 100 seated, 120 standing
Recent gigs: Thin Az Lizzy, The Legend of Luke Kelly, The Jury
Upcoming gigs: Mack Fleetwood (April 27), The Riptide Movement (July 12), Voodoo Sunshine (September 27)

LIMELIGHT 
17 Ormeau Ave, Belfast
Tel: (028) 9032 7007
limelightbelfast.com
One of the city’s most acclaimed spaces for live music, the Limelight has hosted some of the biggest names in the game over the years, including Oasis, Jeff Buckley, Joe Strummer, and Manic Street Preachers. Split into separate venues – Limelight 1 and Limelight 2, as well as The Rock Garden, part of Katy’s Bar  – this Belfast institution is also famed for its popular club nights.
Capacity: 750 (Limelight 1), 450 (Limelight 2)
Recent gigs: King Kong Company, The Academic, Jazzy
Upcoming gigs: Chalk (April 12), Le Boom (April 13), Holding Absence (July 26)

MCCAFFERTY’S
The Diamond, Donegal
Tel: (074) 974 2656
mccaffertysbars.com
With locations in Ireland, the UK, Spain and the UAE, it all started for McCafferty’s when the original bar opened in the Diamond in Donegal Town in 2016. Music is an integral component of the iconic venue – with live acts seven days a week, it has become a must-visit for locals and tourists alike. McCafferty’s continues to collaborate with local musicians, as it strives to showcase the best of the Donegal music scene.
Recent Gigs: The Wilful, Paul Ward, Adam Dolan
Upcoming Gigs: Meagan Lucas (April 11), Niki Pollock (April 12), Declan Gaughan (April 13)

MERMAID ARTS CENTRE
Main St, Bray, Co. Wicklow
Tel: (01) 272 4030
mermaidartscentre.ie
A creative powerhouse in the heart of Bray, the Mermaid Arts Centre has been welcoming local and international artists and performers for over 20 years now. This year, that hard work was recognised – with the Mermaid team taking home the award in the Rest of Leinster category at the IMRO Live Music Venue of the Year Awards. They’ve got another electrifying season of live music lined up, from the enchanting Shorelines trio to the mesmerising Jack L – plus a soul-stirring performance from Niall McCabe. Also coming up is West Wicklow Chamber Festival’s Under the Wings of Angels, and the legendary Bray Jazz Festival 2024, which returns this May Bank Holiday Weekend.
Capacity: 242
Recent gigs: An Evening with Tom Dunne, Fiachna Ó Braonáin & Alan Connor
Upcoming gigs: Jack Lukeman (April 26), Karen Underwood: The Nina In Me (May 10), The Classic Beatles: The Magical Mystery Tour 2024 (June 15)

MIKE THE PIES
28 Patrick Street, Listowel, Co. Kerry
Tel: (068) 21259
mikethepies.com
Over the course of the past decade, Aiden O’Connor has put Listowel on the map as an essential – if unexpected! – stop on the touring itineraries of some of the country’s most celebrated acts. From Fontaines D.C. and Pillow Queens, to American punk icon Richie Ramone, Mike The Pies has welcomed them all, with the cosy pub creating the perfect atmosphere for musical alchemy on the small stage – whether that’s pin-drop silence, or brilliantly wild energy. With the award-winning bar’s reputation having stretched far beyond its capacity, you often have to act fast to secure tickets – but if you’re lucky enough to secure a spot in the crowd, you’re in for an unforgettable night…
Capacity: 100
Recent gigs: Jack O’Rourke, Stephanie Rainey, Amble
Upcoming gigs: Pa Sheehy (April 11), The Bluetones (April 25), SPRINTS (April 26)

Fontaines D.C. at Mike The Pies.
Credit: Liam Kelly

MONROE’S
14 Dominick Street Upper, Galway
Tel: (091) 583 397
monroes.ie
One of the best in the west, and located above one of the most beloved watering holes in the city, Monroe’s Live hosts a gig every night of the week. Pretty much the entire spectrum of modern music is covered by this multi-purpose space. From original artists to expert cover acts, there’s something for everyone – as well as more intimate gigs in the 150-capacity Backstage area.
Capacity: 400
Recent gigs: Bionic Rats, Smash Hits, The Opacas
Upcoming gigs: Nathan Johnston & The Angels of Libra (April 27), Cry Before Dawn (June 29), Onóir (September 7)

NATIONAL CONCERT HALL
Earlsfort Terrace, Dublin 2
Tel: (01) 417 0000
nch.ie
As Ireland’s centre for the creation and performance of music, this renowned venue has both a national impact and an international presence. Hosting over 1,000 events each year, the National Concert Hall strives to offer world class music and entertainment for all ages, with an impressively wide-ranging event calendar. It’s continued to diversify its programme in recent years, with events like the acclaimed Haunted Dancehall festival.
Capacity: 1,200 (Main Auditorium), 250 (John Field Room)
Recent gigs: Imagining Ireland (Sorcha Richardson, Ye Vagabonds), Lambchop, Max Cooper
Upcoming gigs:  Samara Joy (April 20), John Francis Flynn (May 4), Bonnie 'Prince' Billy (August 26)

Rufus Wainwright at The National Concert Hall. Saturday 22nd of July 2023. Copyright Miguel Ruiz.

RECORD ROOM
46/47 Catherine Street, Limerick
thecommercial.pub/record-room
A basement venue in the heart of Limerick City – located under The Commercial bar – Record Room has become a thriving spot for innovative talent and emerging homegrown acts. The venue’s contribution to the city’s scene was celebrated with the release of the vinyl record Live at Record Room back in December – featuring recordings of some of Limerick’s most groundbreaking artists in the intimate room.
Capacity: 80
Recent gigs: The Breath, Rachael Lavelle, Alexis Taylor of Hot Chip
Upcoming gigs: Emma Langford (April 26), David Holmes (July 12),

RÓISÍN DUBH
Lower Dominick Street, Galway
Tel: (091) 586 540
roisindubh.net
What Whelan’s is to the east, Roisin Dubh is to the west. A chief hang–out for musicians in Connacht, it has become one of Ireland’s best–loved venues over the course of two decades. With their bookers continually having their fingers on the pulse, you only get the cream of the crop gracing the Róisín Dubh stage. From rising Irish bands to A–list international artists like Ed Sheeran, they embrace acts at every level, so long as they have the chops to put on a terrific show.
Capacity: 280
Recent gigs: All Tvvins, Seamus Fogarty, Muireann Bradley
Upcoming gigs: HousePlants (April 12), Mary Coughlan (April 14), The Love Buzz (April 25)

SEA CHURCH
Main St, Ballycotton,
Co. Cork
Tel: (021) 234 0525
seachurch.ie
One of Ireland’s most unique newer venues, Sea Church opened its doors in style in February 2020, with stellar sets from Lisa Hannigan and The Frank and Walters. Based in the former St Colman’s Church of Ireland, which made a memorable appearance in Divine Rapture back in 1995, the venue has been kitted out with a high-end audio system – and is set to host some heavy-hitters over the coming months.
Capacity: 120
Recent gigs: In Tua Nua, Celine Byrne, Delush
Upcoming Gigs: Pa Sheehy (April 26), Altan (May 2), Kiera Dignam (June 7)

SET THEATRE
Langton House Hotel, 69 John Street, Kilkenny
Tel: (056) 776 5133
set.ie
Since its construction in 2009, the Set Theatre has firmly established itself as a brilliant, state-of-the-art venue, located in Langstons Hotel on the bustling John Street in the heart of Kilkenny City. A beautiful building – one of only two David Collins-designed spaces in Ireland – it regularly hosts films, music and comedy, and gets thoroughly involved in town affairs during festival season. In addition to the theatre, the team also host gigs in Langton’s Ballroom, and in the nearby St Canice’s Cathedral.
Capacity: 380 (standing), 252 (seated)
Recent gigs: David Keenan, The Scratch, Something Happens
Upcoming gigs: Joachim Cooder (May 4), The Handsome Family (May 5), Robert Grace (June 7)

THE SOUND HOUSE
28 Eden Quay, North City, Dublin 1
Tel: (085) 834 2006
thesoundhouse.ie
With its state-of-the-art Void soundsystem, the Sound House has established itself as a prominent force in the city’s live entertainment and arts scene. With an emphasis on quality, originality and inclusivity, the venue has got plenty of thrillingly up-and-coming acts lined up over the weeks ahead…
Capacity: 300
Recent Gigs: MIKE, Ronan Group, Vendetta Love
Upcoming Gigs: Yxngxr1 (April 12), Tommy Cullen (April 26), Sick Love (May 9)

Biig Piig at The Sound House, Dublin. Thursday 9th of November 2022. Copyright Miguel Ruiz.

SILO
Shelbourne Hall, RDS, Ballsbridge Dublin 4
silodublin.com
Ireland’s newest and biggest electronic music venue is located at the RDS, and the unique event space is quickly becoming an essential destination. Inspired by Printworks and Warehouse Project, SILO marks the beginning of an exciting new era for Dublin’s dance scene. “Attendees can expect cutting edge production,” Julian O’Brien of TEG MJR Éire told Hot Press, “the likes of which they’ve not seen on the island of Ireland before.”
Capacity: 3,500
Recent gigs: blk., Versatile, Elrow (Gorgon City, Eats Everything, Alan Fitzpatrick, Hannah Wants)
Upcoming gigs: Keep an eye on their socials…

THE SUGAR CLUB
8 Leeson Street Lower,
Dublin 2
Tel: (01) 678 7188
thesugarclub.com
Formerly the Irish Film Theatre, the Sugar Club reflects its cinema roots with tiered banquet seating and a large screen for projections. Hosting a multitude of gigs, theatre productions, movie screenings, podcasts, panel discussions, conferences, art exhibitions, private parties and more, the Sugar Club occupies a unique space on the Dublin scene.
Capacity: 350
Recent Gigs: Gruff Rhys, Garadice, Fizzy Orange
Upcoming Gigs: Niall McCabe (April 12), Shabazz Palaces (May 3), Fears (June 1)

THE SPIRIT STORE
George’s Quay, Dundalk, Co. Louth
Tel: (042) 9352697
spiritstore.ie
Keeping things gloriously loud in Louth, the Spirit Store is the key venue in Dundalk, and proof that there’s plenty happening on the M1 between Belfast and Dublin. If an Irish artist is hitting the road, you can be sure the Spirit Store will figure highly in their plans – with the Dundalk crowds creating a great atmosphere at every single show.
Capacity: 200
Recent gigs: HamsandwicH, David Kitt & John Blek, Robert John Ardiff
Upcoming gigs: The Henry Girls (May 12), Lemoncello (May 26), Arborist (June 1)

TLT THEATRE
East Coast Business Park, Matthew’s Lane, Drogheda, Co. Louth
Tel: (041) 987 8560
thetlt.ie
This purpose-built, state-of-the-art theatre is at the heart of the arts in Drogheda and the North East – hosting a wide variety of music, comedy, conversation and more. The Tommy Leddy Theatre (TLT) is home to one of the largest theatre stages in the country, while the room also provides a uniquely intimate atmosphere at live shows. There’s a world-class selection of artists making their way to the theatre this year, catering to fans of pop, country, folk and more.
Capacity: 1,250
Recent gigs: Mike Denver, Dan McCabe
Upcoming gigs: Daniel O’Donnell (May 12), Rebecca O’Connor (June 21), Christy Moore (July 6 & 19)

The TLT. Credit: ricinephoto.com / thetlt.ie

TOWNHALL CAVAN
Town Hall St, Cavan
Tel: (049) 438 0494
townhallcavan.com
Occupying a unique place at the core of the performing arts in Cavan, this theatre space boasts the latest lighting and audio technology. The Townhall supports the professional development of local groups, as well as featuring a vibrant national performance programme. The hall officially opened its doors back in 1910, before undergoing significant redecoration and refurbishment in the ‘80s – and was repurposed as the local arts centre in 2015.
Capacity: 224 (seated)
Recent gigs: Lyra, Rob Strong Band, The Frank and Walters
Upcoming gigs: The 4 Of Us (May 4), Marcus Magee & The Hollaw Men (May 19), Mundy (June 15)

ULSTER HALL
34 Bedford St, Belfast
Tel: (028) 9033 4455
ulsterhall.co.uk
Located in the heart of Belfast, Ulster Hall first opened its doors back in 1862 – and has since welcomed everyone from Charles Dickens to Snow Patrol. There’s been no shortage of iconic moments at the venue over the years – including the first ever public performance of Led Zeppelin’s ‘Stairway To Heaven’, back in 1971. Ulster Hall continues to welcome an eclectic array of artists to its prestigious stage, from classical concerts to massive hip-hop and rock shows.
Capacity:
Recent gigs: KNEECAP, The Stranglers, George Murphy & The Rising Sons
Upcoming gigs: Lainey Wilson (April 16), Tom Walker (April 23), Jorja Smith (August 3)

THE VENUE ATHLONE
Church St, Athlone, Co. Westmeath
Tel: (090) 640 9049 /
087 202 5290
instagram.com/thevenueathlone
Rapidly building up a reputation as one of the finest live music venues in the Midlands, The Venue Athlone is now considered an essential destination for some of Irish music’s leading names. With its stunning decor and improved lay-out, the up-and-coming spot – located in the heart of Athlone – has celebrated another major milestone this month, with the opening of its second space, The Main Room. The new room has wasted no time in getting up-and-running, and has already got a phenomenal line-up of acts scheduled to perform over the coming months. Both of The Venue’s spaces are also available to hire for private parties, launches and other events.
Capacity: 400 (The Venue Main Room), 200 (The Venue)
Recent gigs: Mack Fleetwood, Qween, The Tumbling Paddies
Upcoming gigs: Paddy Casey (April 19), The Riptide Movement (June 29), Keywest (July 20)

VICAR STREET
58-59 Thomas St,
Dublin 8
Tel:  (01) 775 5800
vicarstreet.com
Another of Dublin’s most beloved spots, Vicar Street originally opened in 1998, before getting an extension in 2002 – and it has since played host to an eclectic array of top-notch acts, including Kendrick Lamar, Slash, Gilla Band, Slint, Sonic Youth, John Carpenter and many more. As well as serving as a brilliant space for live music, Vicar Street is also a hugely popular comedy venue, attracting some of the biggest names in the business.
Capacity: 1,500 (standing), 1,050 (seated)
Recent gigs: Rhiannon Giddens, ØXN, Dylan
Upcoming gigs: Thundercat (April 16), Orbital (May 5), Dionne Warwick (May 22 & 23)

WHELAN’S
25 Wexford Street, Dublin 2
Tel: (01) 478 0766
whelanslive.com
Celebrating its 35th year in operation in 2024, Whelan’s has carved out a special place at the heart of the live music scene in Ireland. Its iconic status long assured – following legendary performances from Jeff Buckley, Nick Cave, Arctic Monkeys and Townes Van Zandt – the venue continues to go from strength to strength. In addition to the Main Venue, you can catch intimate gigs in their Upstairs space, and in Little Whelan’s next door.
Capacity: 450 (standing in the Main Venue)
Recent gigs: SPRINTS, Nell Mescal, David Gray
Upcoming Gigs: Mick Flannery (April 18-20), Niamh Bury (April 28), English Teacher (May 22)

THE WORKMAN’S CLUB
10 Wellington Quay
Dublin 2
Tel: (01) 670 6692
theworkmansclub.com
Something of a HQ for pub-goers and musicians alike, The Workman’s Club restored the decor of an old neglected working man’s club to create a totally 21st century venue. In addition to their main venue, they’ve opened another musical oasis downstairs in The Workman’s Cellar. Named IMRO’s Dublin Live Music Venue of 2023, there’s something happening nearly every night at The Workman’s Club…
Capacity: 300 (Main Room), 170 (Workman’s Cellar)
Recent gigs: The Last Dinner Party, sign crushes motorist, Meryl Streek
Upcoming Gigs:  Benjamin Francis Leftwich (April 13), Shobsy (April 20), Problem Patterns (April 26)

The Last Dinner Party at Workmans Club. Tuesday 19th of December 2023. Copyright Gary Ibbotson.