Venues Special: Celebrating the "lifeblood of our music scene"

Whether it’s headline slots at festivals, prestigious awards ceremonies, viral videos on social media, or glowing features in international publications, you don’t have to look far to see that Irish music is enjoying a massive moment on the world stage right now – with thrillingly innovative and genre-transcending acts resonating with fans in every corner of the globe.

But as we celebrate all of this phenomenal homegrown talent, it’s important to remember that no art, or artist, emerges in a vacuum.

The hugely vibrant live music scene in Ireland – which has major international artists playing venues like 3Arena, 3Olympia, Vicar Street, and more, as well as outdoor stadiums and parks throughout the summer – is a huge source of inspiration for Irish acts. Whether it's Lana Del Rey, Bruce Springsteen, Post Malone or Olivia Rodrigo, we learn from seeing the biggest stars on the planet live.

But for young acts in particular, the support, inspiration and sense of community offered by a local music scene is vital – and nowhere is this felt more than in the grassroots venues where these artists gather, share their music, and build their fanbase.

“Every band has a different trajectory,” says Neil Dolan, whose family operates three venues in Limerick under the famous Dolan’s banner: the Warehouse, Upstairs, and Kasbah. “Fontaines D.C. did multiple shows in the Kasbah here in Dolan’s, which is a 100-capacity venue. And I know they did multiple shows around Dublin. They got their sea legs, as they say, in the smaller venues.

“And bands like Kingfishr, who are doing very well at the moment, would’ve started off in Dolan’s,” he adds. “They did loads of support slots, and then played the Kasbah a few times, and the Warehouse – and then they moved up to the Milk Market for Live at the Big Top, and the Docklands… But the small venues are definitely where it all starts.”

New Rules at Dolans, Limerick. Copyright Aoife Moloney/hotpress.com

Gary Monroe, of the award-winning Galway venue Monroe’s, has seen plenty of bands making similar leaps over the years.

“Kodaline played in front of maybe 20 people here, their first time,” he recalls. “The second time it was 30 or 40, and the third time it was maybe 120. Then, when they got their big break, and had been away in the States, they called me up and said, ‘Gary, we want to celebrate.’ So we had a big shindig – it was crazy!”

IMPORTANT SOCIAL HUB

From those special performances by artists at the outset of their careers, to intimate gigs with legendary bands, there’s a remarkably rich history to be uncovered in venues right across the country – including Dolan’s, Monroe’s, the Set Theatre in Kilkenny, and Mike The Pies in Listowel. As Neil points out, it’s that “if-the-walls-could-talk” factor that makes stepping into these rooms so special.

That sense of history is also what inspired The Frames’ recent run of intimate shows – with the band returning last month to the grassroots venues that played a crucial role in shaping their career. In doing so, they aimed to shine a light on the small and medium-sized venues that “form the foundation of Ireland’s live music ecosystem.”

“These are the rooms where we learn to tell stories and learn the magic of the intimate spaces,” Glen Hansard said at the time. “Only from there can we take it to a bigger stage with any confidence.”

And it’s not just Irish artists who are showing these venues love. While larger venues continue to bring word-class acts to these shores, in recent years, plenty of international bands have gone out of their way to add more intimate Irish venues to their touring itineraries – from Wolf Alice’s special run of surprise Kilkenny, Cork and Limerick shows last year, to Foo Fighters’ recent shows at The Academy in Dublin and St James’s Church in Dingle.

“They love playing in the smaller, intimate venues – where they can touch hands, and really see people’s eyes,” says Gary Monroe. “They love those up and close and personal gigs, because they know that’s where they started. These big bands didn’t hit the stadium gigs from the get-go. They started small, and they still love it.”

As Neil Dolan points out, those international acts are attracted by the warm Irish welcome too.

“Irish hospitality has always been No.1 in the world, and you can see that in the venues,” he says. “International acts go to small venues in Ireland, and they’re treated really well.

“We’ve also got a great infrastructure for touring,” he continues. “The roads are quite good now, so over the past 20 years, it’s become a lot easier to tour here.”

The impact of these grassroots venues on their local community is also crucial.

“They’re a very important social hub for people to gather,” Gary nods. “And they’re a place for like-minded people, who might enjoy a certain genre of music, to come together. There’s bands that might have a relatively small fanbase, but when those fans come together, they’re diehards.”

CULTURAL CONTRIBUTION

Of course, there are also significant challenges facing the live music industry in Ireland right now – with Neil noting that it can be “difficult to make money, and keep the lights on, in 100-capacity venues.”

“It’s not easy keeping a band on the road – it’s costly,” Gary adds. “They’re coming down to play for small money, if they’re not well-known. And we’re not making money – we’re supporting the acts. So venues like ourselves could take two, three, four hits on a band –  and then sometimes, if the band does happen to break through, we don’t get the opportunity to make it back up again.

“Trends are changing, and with the cost of living, it’s getting more difficult,” he continues. “Sometimes it’s cheaper to be closed, and that’s just unfortunate. We’re lucky at Monroe’s that we have the bar downstairs – if it was a standalone venue, I don’t know if it would survive.”

Kíla at Monroe's

There have, however, been efforts to respond to these challenges. Earlier this month, Minister Patrick O’Donovan announced a new phase of the Night-Time Economy Support Scheme, aimed at independent grassroots venues – with €1 million allocated to support small established venues.

“Grassroots venues are the lifeblood of our music scene and are so important in the development of our emerging talent and in the creation of jobs right across the creative sector,” Minister O’Donovan commented. “Supporting these important cultural hubs in our local communities ensures that the next generation of artists will still have a place to develop their careers, perform live and build their audiences at home here in Ireland.”

This new iteration of the scheme was welcomed by Edel Curtin of Coughlan’s in Cork.

“This is not just vital financial help for our venues; it is also an acknowledgement of the essential role our stages play in the development of Irish artists,” she remarked, speaking on behalf of the Live Venue Collective, a group of small and medium-sized independent Irish music venues. “There is a long and challenging road ahead in keeping our grassroots venues open and functioning – and this support is a step in the right direction.”

While there’s no doubt that the cost-of-living crisis can be a serious barrier, Neil Dolan still finds that there is “a massive appetite to go to gigs” in this country.

In a report by IMRO last year, it was found that the average Irish adult will spend over €757 a year on music events and gigs – with the Irish music industry generating a total of €1 billion every year, and employing over 13,400 people.

Although many of those people’s hard work happens out of view of the audience, their contribution to the sector is set to be celebrated next month, with the 2026 edition of the IMRO Live Music Awards. Hosted by Tom Dunne, the ceremony will take place at the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin on April 21 – with awards for outstanding venues, festivals, promoters and technical crews.

“IMRO’s recent research on the value of music to the Irish economy highlights the significant cultural and economic contribution of live music activity across the country,” says Victor Finn, CEO of IMRO. “Venues, festivals and promoters all play vital roles in creating opportunities for music creators and performers, supporting employment and enriching communities.

“This year’s IMRO Live Music Awards provide a renewed opportunity to recognise the individuals and organisations whose dedication ensures that live music continues to thrive in Ireland.”

As the awards highlight, there are unique live music experiences to be soaked up right across this country, every night of the week – thanks not only to the remarkable musical talent in this country, but to the creativity and determination of those on the other side of the stage lights.

“It’s the best medicine,” Gary Monroe says of working in live music. “It lifts your soul and it just speaks more than words. It can be tricky – but I love it.”

Monroe's

From intimate rooms to spectacular arenas, Ireland is blessed with some amazing live venues, where musical magic happens every night of the week

3ARENA
North Wall Quay, Dublin 1
Tel: (01) 819 8888
3arena.ie
Regularly ranked among the top 10 busiest – and best – venues in the world, 3Arena is 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: RAYE, David Byrne, sombr
Upcoming gigs: Tame Impala (May 13) Doja Cat (May 19), Guns N’ Roses (June 10)

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. and Radiohead – to name but a few. A wonderfully atmospheric room with impeccable sound, the venue is a past winner of the Hot Press Live Venue of the Year.
Capacity: 1,600
Recent gigs: Sleaford Mods, Ashnikko, The Streets
Upcoming gigs: Ray LaMontagne (May 20 & 21), Tinariwen (May 25), Florence Road (May 27)

THE ACADEMY
57 Abbey Street Middle, Dublin 1
Tel: (01) 539 2927
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: THUMPER, Cavetown, EDEN
Upcoming gigs: Brògeal (May 7), Sir Chloe (May 18), Clutch (May 25 & 26)

THE AMBASSADOR THEATRE
Parnell Square South, Upper O’Connell Street, Dublin 1
theambassadortheatre.com
Amy Winehouse, The Libertines, Beck, Def Leppard and Motörhead are just some of the acts who graced the stage of this historic north inner-city space during its run as a music venue in the ‘00s. Following a spell as an exhibition hall, and a period of closure, the Ambassador threw open its doors to live music and comedy again in late 2024 – reclaiming its rightful place as a gem in the city’s vibrant music scene.
Recent gigs: Ron Sexsmith; Ocean Colour Scene’s Steve Cradock; Butler, Blake & Grant
Upcoming gigs: Kiefer Sutherland (May 21), Amanda Shires (June 5), G4 (June 27)

DUG at The Ambassador Theatre/copyright Patrik Meier

BANK LANE
Bank Lane, Waterford
banklane.ie
Over the past three years, Bank Lane has established itself as a vital new venue in the South East. Boasting state-of-the-art sound and lighting, it has re-established Waterford as an essential stop on the Irish touring circuit, attracting some of the most exciting names in homegrown music, as well as a selection of international legends.
Capacity: 400
Recent gigs: Fun Lovin’ Criminals’ Huey Morgan, DUG, Soda Blonde
Upcoming gigs: The Smiths’ Mike Joyce (May 31), The Bluetones (June 12), The Undertones (November 6)

THE BELFAST EMPIRE MUSIC HALL
42 Botanic Avenue, Belfast
Tel: (028) 9024 9276
thebelfastempire.com
A converted church that now puts on music and comedy acts regularly, the Belfast Empire is renowned as one of the city’s finest venues. The beautiful architecture and great balcony also give the venue a wonderfully intimate, cinematic feel.
Capacity: 500
Recent gigs: Brian Finnegan, Gerry McAvoy’s Band of Friends, Pinch of Snuff
Upcoming gigs: Damien Dempsey (May 22), The Lemon Twigs (May 27), Allie Sherlock (September 7)

BELLOBAR
1 Portobello Harbour, Dublin
instagram.com/bellobardublin
Located below The Lower Deck – and occupying a special place in the hearts of Dublin’s music lovers – BelloBar has hosted countless rising stars and underground heroes over the years. The intimate space is renowned for its great sound, and is often the venue of choice for album or EP launches.
Capacity: 200
Recent gigs: Pauric O’Meara, Olan Monk, I Am Kloot’s John Bramwell
Upcoming gigs: Modern Nature (May 2), Mudrat (May 27), William Tyler (September 25)

BORD GÁIS ENERGY THEATRE
Grand Canal Square, Docklands, Dublin 2
Tel: (01) 677 7999
bordgaisenergytheatre.ie
Upon its opening in 2010, audiences instantly took to the Bord Gáis Energy Theatre – little wonder, given its impressive decor and brilliant sound. There’s always a huge variety of events going on, with BGET having played host to major international stars of music, political icons and huge theatrical productions.
Capacity: 2,111
Recent gigs: Nathan Carter, Angus & Julia Stone, RTÉ Concert Orchestra, Moulin Rouge: The Musical
Upcoming gigs: Kraftwerk (May 17), Christopher Cross (May 24 & 26), Jeff Goldblum & The Mildred Snitzer Orchestra (May 30), Mrs. Doubtfire (opens December 2)

BUTTON FACTORY
Curved St, Temple Bar, Dublin 2
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 – and was 2025’s winner of Dublin Venue of the Year at the IMRO Awards. Alongside the main venue, the building is also home to Curveball, an 80-to-100-capacity space for more intimate shows.
Capacity: 550 (Main Venue)
Recent gigs: Armand Hammer, Stereo MC’s, Gurriers
Upcoming gigs: Chalk (May 15), BIIRD (May 17), Theo Katzman (June 16)

Nova Twins at The Button Factory on October 14th, 2025. Copyright Abigail Ring/ hotpress.com

CLEERE’S BAR & THEATRE
28 Parliament St, Kilkenny
Tel:  (056) 776 2573
cleeres.com
Inside this popular Kilkenny spot, you’ll find both an atmospheric traditional pub and a spectacular, intimate venue – which has welcomed a genre-spanning selection of artists from Ireland and abroad. In addition to its musical acts, Cleere’s has also built up a reputation as a great spot for comedy in the city.
Capacity: 100
Recent gigs: Meryl Streek, The Frames, John Blek
Upcoming gigs: Róisín O (May 8), HamsandwicH (May 15), C.W. Stoneking (June 6)

CONNOLLY’S OF LEAP
Main Street, Leap, Co. Cork
Tel: (085) 232 9435
connollysofleap.com
The self-described “tiny, intimate, third generation music venue” has reached near-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 over a decade ago – and has since kitted out the space with a brilliant, custom-made sound system.
Capacity: 150
Recent gigs: The Kates, Gilla Band, Jerry Fish
Upcoming gigs: Junior Brother (May 22), Ríoghnach Connolly & Honeyfeet (June 6), Hothouse Flowers (August 22 & 23)

CORK OPERA HOUSE
Emmet Place, Cork
Tel: (021) 427 0022
corkoperahouse.ie
Coming into existence way back in 1855, rebuilt in the ‘60s, and these days a state-of-the-art venue, Cork Opera House combines historical lustre with a vibrant contemporary sheen. An iconic structure in the People’s Republic, its impressive interior and phenomenal acoustics make each show unique.
Capacity: 1,000
Recent gigs: Ye Vagabonds, Nathan Carter, The Pharcyde
Upcoming gigs: Mary Black (June 3), Cormac Begley (September 13), Paul Brady (October 15 & 16)

Ye Vagabonds at Cork Opera House

COUGHLAN’S
7 Douglas Street, Cork
Tel: (021) 229 0482
coughlans.ie
Established almost two centuries ago, Coughlan’s is steeped in history. The 2025 winner of Munster Venue of the Year at the IMRO Awards, it has well and truly established itself as a Cork institution – as it continues to play a key role in supporting the city’s vibrant live music scene.
Capacity: 120
Recent gigs: Dani Larkin, Áine Tyrrell, Ger Wolfe
Upcoming gigs: Guy Davis (May 4), Niall Connolly (May 24), Kat Eaton (September 17 & 18)

CYPRUS AVENUE
Caroline Street, Cork
Tel: (021) 427 6165
cyprusavenue.ie
Situated just above The Old Oak, Cyprus Avenue has carved out a reputation as one of Cork’s key spots for live music since opening its doors back in 2003. For a more intimate gig experience, check out the venue’s second space, the 80-capacity Winthrop Avenue, which they opened in 2019. They also host events on their rooftop space, known as Wavelength.
Capacity: 500
Recent gigs: Sleaford Mods, Madra Salach, Gurriers
Upcoming gigs: The Itchyworms (May 13), Rodrigo y Gabriela (May 27), Eric Bibb (June 10)

DOLAN’S
3-4 Dock Road, Limerick
Tel: (061) 314 483
dolans.ie
In the game for over three decades, Dolan’s reputation only continues to grow. Over the years, they’ve transformed a small quayside pub into a key music institution, made up of several venues, including Dolan’s Warehouse, Upstairs, and Kasbah – while also presenting major gigs elsewhere in the city, like Live At The Castle, Live At The Big Top, and Live At The Docklands.
Capacity: 380 (Dolan’s Warehouse), 120 (Upstairs), 120 (Kasbah)
Recent gigs: Gavin Friday, Stereolab, Beth Orton
Upcoming gigs: The Boo Radleys (May 16), The Stunning (May 30), Mercury Rev (July 17)

DEBARRA’S FOLK CLUB
55 Pearse Street, Clonakilty, Co. Cork
Tel: (023) 883 3381
debarra.ie
This long-established venue has a reputation for bringing celebrated artists to West Cork – forging connections with the likes of the Jimi Hendrix Experience’s Noel Redding, Paddy Keenan, Roy Harper and Christy Moore over the course of its remarkable history. DeBarra’s was even named one of Lonely Planet’s ‘Best Musical Venues’, as part of their Best In Travel 2025.
Recent gigs: John Spillane, Madra Salach, The Frames
Upcoming gigs: Muireann Nic Amhlaoibh (May 8), Alan Daniel Tobin (May 31), Andy Irvine & Quilty (November 14)

THE DUNCAIRN
Duncairn Avenue, Belfast
Tel: (028) 9074 7114
theduncairn.com
Now over 12 years in operation, this North Belfast venue – based inside a former 19th century church – has carved out a special presence in the city’s cultural scene. The Duncairn places a particularly strong emphasis on celebrating and platforming Ireland’s finest folk and traditional musicians – while also presenting BYOB gigs spanning jazz, soul, and more.
Capacity: 170
Recent gigs: Butler, Blake & Grant; David Kitt; Polar Bolero
Upcoming gigs: California Irish (May 9), Spafford Campbell (May 14), Kris Dever (October 24)

GLENEAGLE ARENA
Muckross Road, Killarney, Co. Kerry
Tel: (064) 667 1555
gleneaglearena.ie
A stronghold of live entertainment in Munster, the Gleneagle Arena – formerly the INEC – has hosted a multitude of world class acts since opening in 2000. The venue is able to switch effortlessly from the intimate to the arena–sized with its various spaces – hosting a wide array of musicians, DJs, comedians, performers and more.
Capacity: 4,142 (Arena), 750 (Club)
Recent gigs: Picture This, KNEECAP, Bob Dylan
Upcoming gigs: Gavin James (May 3), Mary Black (May 16), Gareth (May 28)

Picture This at the Gleneagle Arena

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 for 16 years, The Grand Social is one of the capital’s busiest and most respected hubs of live music. A previous winner of Dublin Music Venue of the Year at the IMRO Awards, the venue revamped its second stage, the Ballroom, last year, with a new raised stage and state-of-the-art sound and lighting.
Capacity: 300 (The Loft), 170 (The Ballroom)
Recent gigs: High Parasite, LARAbEL, Makeshift Art Bar
Upcoming gigs: Kiera Dignam (May 1), Crack Cloud (May 7), Child of Prague (May 14)

AN GRIANÁN THEATRE
Port Road, Letterkenny, Co. Donegal
Tel: (074) 912 0777
angrianan.com
This Letterkenny venue – a previous winner of the IMRO Award for Best Live Music Venue in Ulster – has become an integral part of the region’s thriving cultural life since opening its doors in 1999. Boasting one of the largest theatre stages in Ireland, the state-of-the-art facility regularly hosts music, drama, comedy, and more.
Capacity: 383
Recent gigs: Joshua Burnside, The Whistlin’ Donkeys, RUÁ
Upcoming gigs: Damien Dempsey (May 2), Mary Coughlan (June 26), Onóir (September 16 & 17)

HAWK’S WELL THEATRE
Temple Street, Sligo
Tel: (071) 916 1518
hawkswell.com
Now 44 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. The theatre is a previous winner in the Connacht category at the IMRO Live Music Awards.
Capacity: 340
Recent gigs: Mary Gauthier, Derek Ryan, Mary Coughlan
Upcoming gigs: Donovan (June 19), Noura Mint Seymali (July 11), Ralph McTell (October 22)

KAVANAGH’S BAR &  VENUE
28 Main Street, Portlaoise, Co. Laois
Tel: (057) 862 1744
kavanaghsportlaoise.com
Established in 1869, 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 over the years – they’re also well-known for their comedy shows.
Capacity: 100 seated, 120 standing
Recent gigs: Duke Special, The Riptide Movement, Pa Sheehy
Upcoming gigs: CLADA (May 2), George Murphy & The Rising Sons (May 3), Katherine Priddy (September 24)

LEVIS CORNER HOUSE
Main Street, Ballydehob, Co. Cork
Tel: (028) 37118
leviscornerhouse.com
For an intimate live music experience you’ll never forget, head to Levis’, the beating heart of a small town famed for its creatives and non-conformists. Run by Joe O’Leary (formerly of the Cork band Fred) and his partner Caroline, the unique, award-winning space  – which has been in the one family for over a century – continues to attract both big-name acts and innovative emerging artists.
Recent gigs: Áine Tyrell, Cypress Mine, Ye Vagabonds
Upcoming gigs: Basciville (April 11), How I Became A Wave (May 16), George Houston (June 20)

LIMELIGHT
17 Ormeau Avenue, 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 Limelight Lounge  – this Belfast institution is also famed for its popular club nights.
Capacity: 750 (Limelight 1), 450 (Limelight 2)
Recent gigs: The Paper Kites, Ron Sexsmith, Sleaford Mods
Upcoming gigs: Chalk (May 16), Florence Road (May 26), Amanda Shires (June 4)

LIVE AT ST LUKE’S
St. Luke’s Former Church, Summerhill North, Cork
liveatstlukes.com
Situated in a landmark building on Cork’s northside, Live At St. Luke’s has become known as one of the city’s premier concert destinations – offering a unique, BYOB live music experience inside a former church.
Capacity: 400
Recent gigs: Hothouse Flowers, Pilgrims, Hermitage Green
Upcoming gigs: Niall Breslin (April 10), Gabrielle Aplin (May 1), Paul Young (May 2)

Junior Brother. Live at St. Luke's Cork. 24 March 2024. Copyright Trevor McGrath

LOST LANE
Adam Court, Grafton St,
Dublin 2
Tel: (01) 679 9204
lostlane.ie
Since its launch in 2019, Lost Lane has carved out its own unique presence in the city’s live music scene, with artists spanning a wide variety of genres. In addition to its popular club nights and tribute act shows, there’s an exciting string of original artists lined up for the months ahead.
Capacity: 320
Recent gigs: John Otway, Santiago Motorizado, BABYRAT
Upcoming gigs: The Savage Hearts (April 17), Jon Spencer (June 3), SPACED (August 30)

MERMAID ARTS CENTRE
Main St, Bray, Co. Wicklow
Tel: (01) 272 4030
mermaidartscentre.ie
A creative engine-room in the heart of Bray, the Mermaid Arts Centre has welcomed local and international artists and performers for over 20 years. The Mermaid has another eclectic season of live music lined up for 2026 – including an exciting line-up of international and homegrown talent for the Bray Jazz Festival, which returns this May Bank Holiday Weekend for its 25th year.
Capacity: 242
Recent gigs: Ye Vagabonds, John Spillane, Jack Lukeman
Upcoming gigs: Fred Hersch Trio (May 1), Mary Coughlan (June 13), Camille O’Sullivan (July 9 & 10)

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.
Capacity: 100
Recent gigs: Ash, Madra Salach, Dave Lofts
Upcoming gigs: Cry Before Dawn (May 1), Róisín O (May 7), Junior Brother (May 21)

Ash at Mike The Pies

MONROE’S
14 Dominick Street Upper, Galway
Tel: (091) 583 397
monroes.ie
Among the best in the west, and located above one of the most beloved watering holes in the city, Monroe’s has played host to some of the biggest acts on these shores and far beyond. Pretty much the entire spectrum of modern music is covered by this award-winning, multi-purpose space – from original artists to expert cover acts, there’s something for everyone. You’ll also find more intimate gigs in the 150-capacity Backstage area.
Capacity: 400
Recent gigs: Chasing Abbey, Jenny Greene, Jerry Fish
Upcoming gigs: HamsandwicH (May 8), Damien Dempsey (June 6), George Houston (June 19)

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 venue is internationally renowned. 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 is currently planning for a major redevelopment of all facilities…
Capacity: 1,200 (Main Auditorium), 250 (John Field Room)
Recent gigs: Saint Sister, ØXN, Breanndán Ó Beaglaoich & Seamas Hyland
Upcoming gigs: Gemma Hayes (May 12), Keb’ Mo’ (June 8), Jacqui McShee’s Pentangle (June 13)

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 has been celebrated with the release of the vinyl record series Live At Record Room – featuring recordings of some of Limerick’s most groundbreaking artists.
Capacity: 80
Recent gigs: Van Panther, Zealot Cult, Dora Gola
Upcoming gigs: MayKay (April 10), HamsandwicH (May 1), DATQIDEXCEL (May 8)

RÓISÍN DUBH
8 Dominick Street Upper, Galway
roisindubh.net
What Whelan’s is to the east, Róisín 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: Florence Road, Pinch of Snuff, Madra Salach
Upcoming gigs: Ailbhe Reddy (May 7), Gareth (May 27), Big Sleep (May 28)

SEA CHURCH
Main Street, Ballycotton, Co. Cork
Tel: (021) 234 0525
seachurch.ie
One of Ireland’s most unique venues, Sea Church launched 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.
Capacity: 120
Recent gigs: John Spillane, The Riptide Movement, Padraig Jack
Upcoming gigs: Jack O’Rourke (May 9), Donovan (May 10), Aslan (May 30)

SET THEATRE
Langton House Hotel, John Street, Kilkenny
Tel: (056) 772 1728
set.ie
Since opening its doors in 2009, the Set Theatre has firmly established itself as a brilliant, state-of-the-art venue, located 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 music, films and comedy, and gets thoroughly involved in town affairs during festival season. Last year, Wolf Alice chose the Kilkenny venue for their first gig in three years, kicking off a string of special Irish shows.
Capacity: 400 (250 seated)
Recent gigs: Gruff Rhys, The Scratch, Bell X1
Upcoming gigs: Damien Dempsey (Apr 4), The Big Star Quintet (May 1), The Frank and Walters (November 21)

Wolf Alice at Set Theatre, Kilkenny on May 19th, 2025. Copyright Abigail Ring/ hotpress.com

THE SOUND HOUSE
28 Eden Quay, Dublin 1
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: Crywank, Rum Jungle, McKinley Dixon
Upcoming gigs: The WU (April 11), Leo Middea (April 29), Jordana (May 30)

SAVOY
Drawbridge Street, Cork
instagram.com/savoycork
From its early days as a cinema, to its decades-spanning stretch as a vibrant space for live music and club nights, the Savoy holds a special place in the hearts of Corkonians. Now, after 10 years of closure, the iconic venue is back – with a newly installed, high-spec sound system, and two distinct spaces: the main venue, and the more intimate Lounge upstairs.
Capacity: 600
Recent gigs: Cardinals, Shampain, BoolaBoom
Upcoming gigs: Alexis Taylor [Hot Chip] DJ Set (April 11), Gwenno (July 17), The Scratch (September 18 & 19)

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: Dom Martin, Bricknasty, Bronagh Gallagher
Upcoming gigs: Jerron Paxton (May 8), Some One’s Sons (May 9), Lucy Blue (May 11)

Tolu Makay supporting RuthAnne at The Sugar Club on October 15th, 2025. Copyright Abigail Ring/ hotpress.com

THE SPIRIT STORE
George’s Quay, Dundalk, Co. Louth
Tel: (042) 935 2697
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 crowd creating a great atmosphere at every single show.
Capacity: 200
Recent gigs: Madra Salach, The Frames, Beth Orton
Upcoming gigs: Guy Davis (May 10), Andy Irvine (September 13), Rónán Ó Snodaigh & Myles O’Reilly (September 19)

TF ROYAL
Old Westport Road, Castlebar, Co. Mayo
Tel: (094) 902 3111
tfroyal.ie
From its early days at the Royal Ballroom, to its current status as a state-of-the-art theatre, the TF Royal has always occupied a special place in the West of Ireland’s cultural landscape – even winning Connacht Venue of the Year at 2025’s IMRO Awards. The venue sells almost a quarter-of-a-million tickets every year, across concerts, comedy shows, musicals and more.
Capacity: 4,000 (standing), 2,200 (seated)
Recent gigs: Picture This, Kingfishr, Foster & Allen
Upcoming gigs: Christy Moore (June 5), Onóir (July 25), George Murphy & The Rising Sons (July 31)

THE TLT
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: Imelda May, The High Kings, Nathan Carter
Upcoming gigs: Niall Breslin (April 24), Mary Black (June 5), Christy Moore (July 3)

TOWNHALL ARTS CENTRE
Town Hall Street, Cavan
Tel: (049) 438 0494
townhallartscentre.com
Nestled in the heart of Cavan Town, in a former church, the Townhall Arts Centre boasts a vibrant programme across the year – featuring music, theatre, ballet, comedy, art exhibitions, workshops and more. A hub of creativity and culture in the town, you can expect a warm, lively atmosphere at each event.
Capacity: 224
Recent gigs: Sharon Shannon, Eddi Reader, The 4 Of Us
Upcoming gigs: Rita Perry & Josh McClorey (April 11), Jack Lukeman (April 17), DUG & Zoé Basha (May 16)

Townhall Arts Centre. Photo: Anna Wiercioch

ULSTER HALL
34 Bedford Street, Belfast
Tel: (028) 9033 4455
ulsterhall.co.uk
Located in the heart of Belfast, Ulster Hall opened its doors back in 1862 – and has since welcomed everyone from Charles Dickens to Snow Patrol. There’s been no shortage of legendary moments 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: 1,650
Recent gigs: Ash, Saxon, The Almighty
Upcoming gigs: Christopher Cross (May 25), Jason Isbell & the 400 Unit (June 2), Kodaline (June 17)

VICAR STREET
58-59 Thomas Street, Dublin 8
Tel:  (01) 775 5800
vicarstreet.com
Another iconic Dublin spot, 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, Neil Young, Adele, Paul Simon 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: Madison Cunningham, Gavin Friday, Christy Moore
Upcoming gigs: Tricky (May 12), BIIRD (May 15 & 16), Aldous Harding (June 5)

THE WHALE THEATRE
Theatre Lane, Greystones, Co Wicklow
Tel:  (085) 789 2760
whaletheatre.ie
A hub of activity, creativity and community in Greystones, this multipurpose theatre has played host to a wide variety of sounds and ideas since opening its doors in 2017 – from local acts, to renowned international talent. Whether you’re there for music, comedy, film, dance or theatre, you can look forward to a vibrant atmosphere in this intimate space.
Capacity: 130
Recent gigs: Niall Breslin, Martin Simpson, The 4 Of Us
Upcoming gigs: Eliza Carthy (April 10), Hothouse Flowers (April 11), Daoirí Farrell (April 23)

WHELAN’S
25 Wexford Street, Dublin 2
Tel: (01) 478 0766
whelanslive.com
Now nearly four decades in operation, 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: Buck Meek, Margaret Glaspy, Then Jerico
Upcoming gigs: Gabrielle Aplin (May 2), Fixity (May 7), Hermitage Green (May 29 & 30)

THE WORKMAN’S CLUB
10 Wellington Quay, Dublin 2
theworkmansclub.com
Something of an 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, you’ll find club nights, karaoke and more upstairs. A previous winner of IMRO’s Dublin Live Music Venue of Year, there’s something happening nearly every night at The Workman’s Club…
Capacity: 300
Recent gigs: Kojaque, Cardinals, Cass McCombs
Upcoming gigs: Madra Salach (April 17 & 18), Dove Ellis (May 18), pôt-pot (May 21)