The Gaiety Theatre was inspired by the enthusiastic Gunn brothers, John and Michael, who grew up in a family music company on Grafton Street. They hired prominent architect C.J. Phipps, whose original design in the style of the classic European opera house gave us the essential Gaiety, with its gorgeous Venetian façade that we are all familiar with.

The Gaiety Theatre has remained true to its founders' vision of presenting the highest quality musical and dramatic entertainment since its glamorous opening night on 27th November 1871. Surprisingly, only 25 weeks passed between the foundation's laying and the opening night, with the contractors working a 24-hour shift!

Lord Lieutenant of Ireland was guest of honour on the opening night and a double bill of Goldsmith's evergreen comedy She Stoops to Conquer followed by the tuneful burlesque La Belle Sauvage.

Since 1871, The Gaiety Theatre has provided opera, musicals, theatre, comedy, concerts, dance, festivals, and pantomime to the people of Dublin. Through laughter and sorrow, war and prosperity, The Grand Old Lady of South King Street has remained an important and ever-changing reflection of Irish culture and society.

Denis and Caroline Desmond, the proprietors, invested more than €2.15 million in the largest repair effort The Gaiety Theatre had seen in more than 50 years in 2003, including the installation of an air conditioning system and new seating with more leg room for improved patron comfort.

The most recent and extensive renovations were completed in 2007. The stage has been fully reconstructed, the orchestra pit has been expanded, the scenery flying accommodations have been enhanced, and a larger and taller tower, as well as operating and loading galleries, have been built. These enhancements have substantially increased the Gaiety's production capability, allowing spectators to watch large-scale Irish and foreign shows.

The Gaiety Theatre can hold up to 1145 people on any of the shows that are performed here.


Location:
The Gaiety Theatre,
46-50 South King Street,
D02 V097

​The Gaiety Theatre is located a 23 minute walk or 17 minute drive from the Castle Hotel. Public Transport can also be taken, our front desk staff will be able to guide you on these.