Our Top Picks For Dublin Theatre Festival
Dublin Theatre Festival is back, so we’re marking the calendar with some of our favourite shows on this year. As ever, there’s a lot on, so here’s where to start.
Hamlet
When: 25-27 September
Where: O’Reilly Theatre, Belvedere College
Experience Hamlet like never before in this powerful Peruvian adaptation by Chela De Ferrari, performed by a cast of actors with Down syndrome. Blending Shakespeare’s iconic lines with the performers’ own stories, this moving production redefines what it means “to be or not to be.”
”The charisma of its exceptional eight-strong cast…They bring such fiery energy that it becomes incredibly infectious as a production.“ — The Guardian
Her Father’s Voice
When: 1-5 October
Where: O’Reilly Theatre, Belvedere College
Her Father’s Voice is a powerful blend of theatre, opera, and film that explores family, identity, and the complexities of Deaf experience. Written by Shane O’Reilly with music by Tom Lane, this moving drama delves into generational truths through the story of a young girl facing cochlear implant surgery.
The Making of Pinocchio
When: 25–27 September
Where: Samuel Beckett Theatre
The Making of Pinocchio is a deeply personal and imaginative re-telling of the classic tale, inspired by Ivor MacAskill’s gender transition, created with his partner Rosana Cade. Blending autobiography with fairy tale, this bold and heartfelt performance explores identity, transformation, and love with humour and vulnerability.
”The wondrous trans tale of Pinocchio… The satire is gentle, but the politics are clear.“ — The Guardian
Pieces of a Woman
When: 10–11 October
Where: O’Reilly Theatre, Belvedere College
Pieces of a Woman is a raw and emotionally charged exploration of grief, resilience, and generational impact, set in contemporary Warsaw. From the creators of the acclaimed Netflix adaptation, this is the Irish stage premiere of the original TR Warszawa production, performed in Polish with English surtitles.
“Six actors whose extraordinary performances make this a true ensemble piece“
— The New York Times
Be Careful
When: 7–11 October
Where: Project Arts Centre (Cube)
Be Careful is a bold and satirical solo performance by Mallika Taneja that challenges the idea of “safety” for women in a world shaped by violence and control. Thirteen years since her first performance, this powerful piece remains fiercely relevant, confronting how society links women’s clothing to the crimes committed against them.
COMPLAINING FOR GOOD — ACTIVISM, FEMINISM AND HOW TO AFFECT CHANGE
When: 7 October
Where: Abbey Theatre, on the Abbey Stage
Complaining for Good is a thought-provoking talk and panel discussion exploring feminist activism, institutional change, and the power of speaking up. Featuring Sarah Durcan, Sara Ahmed, and Catriona Crowe, and chaired by Emma Dabiri, the event marks the launch of two books and offers vital insights into how complaint can drive collective action and lasting transformation.
