From Abba to Johnny Cash — Leitrim's Island Theatre’s set for an unforgettable season

Tucked into the heart of Ballinamore, Co. Leitrim, the Island Theatre is a vibrant cultural hub and state-of-the-art performance venue that’s putting the town firmly on Ireland’s arts map. With seating for up to 241 people, the theatre hosts a year-round programme of live drama, music, dance, and film screenings, while its bright and airy adjoining spaces make it a popular choice for community gatherings, conferences, and social events.

The venue boasts a range of meeting rooms, including a large function space with panoramic views of Ballinamore, a spacious balcony, and an on-site café and bar. Its mission is simple but ambitious: to nurture and showcase home-grown talent, attract leading national and international acts, and provide valuable cultural and employment opportunities for the local community.

At its heart, the Island Theatre is a volunteer-run organisation powered by community spirit. Supported by the Leitrim Volunteer Centre and countless local donors, its dedicated team works tirelessly to ensure the theatre remains a welcoming space for everyone. Their ongoing support keeps events and programmes running smoothly and helps enhance the theatre and adjoining community hall for all who use them.

The Island Theatre’s upcoming programme reflects its diverse and inclusive ethos. Highlights this autumn include Onóir (Sat 11 Oct), a contemporary Irish folk group redefining traditional sounds with stunning harmonies and on-stage chemistry, and Loophole (Sat 18 Oct), a hilarious new play from the Acorn Players. Later in the season, Colin O’Rourke’s one-man show I Had To Go For Counselling (Sat 1 Nov) blends humour and heartfelt reflection on retirement, while the Legends of American Country Show (Sun 9 Nov) celebrates the icons of Nashville with authentic sound and toe-tapping hits.

Comedy fans can look forward to A Celebration of Father Ted with Joe Rooney (Sat 15 Nov), while ABBA lovers will not want to miss The Björn Identity (Sat 29 Nov). A festive Christmas Craft Fair (Sun 23 Nov) offers shopping and seasonal treats, followed by the award-winning tribute Cash Returns – Johnny Cash & June Carter Live (Sat 6 Dec). Family audiences can enjoy Little Bo Peep’s Christmas Mix Up (Sun 14 Dec), a magical show for all ages.

The new year brings even more music and nostalgia, from a Drifters Tribute Tour (Fri 30 Jan) and Legends of the 60s Show (Fri 27 Feb) to the acclaimed Dubliner – The Luke Kelly Story (Sat 14 Mar).

For tickets and event details, visit www.islandtheatre.ie
or call 071 968 1795. The Island Theatre is open Monday to Friday, 9am–1pm, and continues to be a place where community, creativity, and culture come alive.

READ MORE: Check out the faces in the crowd at the 2025 Connacht Gold Leitrim SFC Final - GALLERY