Dundalk play returns to An Táin before big-screen debut

Eleanor Dempsey and Conor Whearty, both graduates of Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT), return to their roles alongside Paul McGee, a familiar and much-loved figure in local theatre | Supplied

placeholder image — Eleanor Dempsey and Conor Whearty, both graduates of Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT), return to their roles alongside Paul McGee, a familiar and much-loved figure in local theatre | Supplied

Conor McGinnity’s acclaimed The Big House returns for second sold-out run

Following a sold-out first run and rave reviews, The Big House, the acclaimed new play by Dundalk writer and director Conor McGinnity, returns to the stage this autumn for a second run at An Táin Arts Centre from 29 September to 3 October.

The production, which made a strong impression with audiences during its initial run, brings together a talented cast with deep connections to the local arts community. Eleanor Dempsey and Conor Whearty, both graduates of Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT), return to their roles alongside Paul McGee, a familiar and much-loved figure in local theatre.

Written by McGinnity, The Big House explores the tensions, relationships and stories that unfold within a family — combining compelling drama with the distinctive voice of one of the region's emerging dramatic talents. The play itself centres on Rose, a young witch, trapped in a desperate marriage in a 1980s Irish farmhouse.

The return to An Táin marks an important milestone for the production, as The Big House is now set to make the transition from stage to screen. A feature film adaptation is scheduled to shoot at Anaverna House in Ravensdale in January 2027, bringing the story and its characters to a new audience.

McGinnity will once again take the creative lead, writing and directing the feature film adaptation, following his work on the original stage production. The film will reunite the three principal performers, with DkIT graduates Dempsey and Whearty joined by theatre veteran McGee.

For McGinnity, the journey from a sold-out theatrical production to a feature film represents an exciting next chapter for The Big House.

The upcoming stage run offers audiences an opportunity to experience and support the play before its cinematic adaptation begins production. With the first run receiving enthusiastic audience response and critical praise, demand is expected to be strong for the five-night return.

The Big House runs at An Táin Arts Centre from Tuesday 29 September to Saturday 3 October 2026. Tickets available at €20/18 from antain.ie or call the box office on 0429332332. €1.50 booking fee per ticket.