An Taibhdhearc, the National Irish Language Theatre, seeks views for new strategy

Neill | Páidín Image: Emilija Jefremova

Today, An Taibhdhearc, the National Irish-Language Theatre, launched an online survey seeking the public’s views on its new strategy for the period 2028-2031.

An Taibhdhearc is currently operating under its Síolta 2025-2027 strategy, funded by the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht. As part of that strategy, a number of new works in the Irish language have been created - most recently SAOIRSE, the new musical which premiered at the Galway International Arts Festival and is being staged at the Abbey Theatre this month as part of Dublin Fringe Festival.

As part of the process of developing the new strategy, An Taibhdhearc wishes to gather the views of its stakeholders. An Taibhdhearc is committed to serving the theatre, arts, Irish-language and Gaeltacht communities nationally and internationally, and looks forward to receiving these views in order to strengthen understanding, reflection and decision-making.

Alan Esslemont, Chairperson of the Board of An Taibhdhearc, said:

“An Taibhdhearc needs to develop a new strategy. I would like to ask the Gaeltacht community and the Irish-speaking community a question. We say at An Taibhdhearc that we are the National Irish-Language Theatre. What do these communities expect from the National Irish-Language Theatre?” 

To support this process, An Taibhdhearc has prepared a short survey. Responses are welcome in both Irish and English. The survey will remain open until 9 October and is available on the An Taibhdhearc website at www.antaibhdhearc.com/suirbhe2026.