Weather-proof your autumn plans by hitting up the Dublin Theatre Festival

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Brighten up your Dublin break with some top-tier entertainment

The Dublin Theatre Festival is in full swing, and with some innovative, exciting and thrilling performances on the agenda, it's a surefire way to brighten up your trip to Dublin. What's more, with the ever-changing weather of autumn in full swing, a trip to the theatre guarantees you a fun night out, come rain or shine. Each year, the Dublin Theatre Festival sees the city's most iconic theatrical venues play host to new plays, operas, musicals and dance pieces, and this year is no exception. To help you get the absolute most out of the Dublin Theatre Festival on your next city break to Dublin, we've highlighted some of our favourite venues hosting events. In addition to this stellar theatrical line-up, we've signposted some nearby spots to indulge in a pre-theatre drink or a bite to eat. So, grab your umbrella, your scarf and your sunnies, and weather-proof your autumn plans by filling your evenings with trips to the theatre. The Dublin Theatre Festival runs until 15 October. Make sure to book early to avoid disappointment.

The Smock Alley Theatre

Located on the banks of the River Liffey, the Smock Alley is a breathtaking venue unlike any other in Dublin. Enjoy a break from the crisp autumn air by stepping inside this institution. Here, you'll find not one, but two venues – the large and versatile Main Space, and the haunting and historic Boy's School.  

 

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What to watch: Catch Tim Crouch and the Royal Lyceum Theatre Edinburgh's production of Truth's A Dog Must to Kennel and The Rachel Baptiste Programme at the Smock Alley Theatre. Truth's A Dog Must to Kennel is an exploration of trauma and virtual reality, while The Rachel Baptiste Programme is your chance to catch work in progress readings from Black Irish theatre-makers. Truth's A Dog Must to Kennel runs from 10 - 14 October and tickets cost €18 - €25. The Rachel Baptiste Programme takes place on 13 October. Where to eat or drink: With cooler weather drawing in, you'll be in the mood to warm up with a tasty Italian feast, so head to the nearby Forno 500 on Dame Street where you'll find Neapolitan pizza, fresh pasta and Italian desserts. If you fancy a cocktail and an autumn evening stroll afterwards, swing by 1661 on Green Street and sample their award-winning tipples.

The Abbey Theatre

 

 

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The Abbey Theatre is Ireland's National Theatre and a place of major literary significance. Many of Ireland's leading playwrights – W.B. Yeats, Lady Gregory and Seán O'Casey – developed their best works here, and to this day it remains a hub for both established and up-and-coming creatives. What to watch: With autumnal vibes in the air, we want to embrace all things rom-com, so book your ticket for Nancy Harris' Somewhere Out There You as it takes to the Abbey's Main Stage for its world premiere. This romantic comedy follows Casey and her new boyfriend Brett, who she believes to be the perfect man. However, as the play unfolds, Casey's suspicious sister Cynthia discovers that Brett may not be exactly who he says he is. Somewhere Out There You runs from 27 September to 14 October. Tickets cost between €13 and €45. Where to eat or drink: These cool autumn nights call for some hot nourishing meals, so take a stroll to Lee's Charming Noodles on Parnell Street and warm up with some flavoursome Chinese dumplings and hand-pulled noodles. Then, call into the uber-cool The Big Romance for a dance to some vinyl track and a beer pulled from their vast craft beer selection. Brought to you by VisitDublin Whatever the weather it's always perfect weather to Keep Discovering. Plan your next short break at VisitDublin.com. The Leave No Trace principles help us make as little an impact as possible on the incredible Irish landscape as we explore the outdoors this autumn and beyond. Keep outdoor areas safe, clean and free from waste/hazards, and help protect the natural environment. Love this place, leave no trace.