Ireland festival at Théâtre de la Ville

The Théâtre de la Ville in Paris is hosting a major cultural event from November 1 to December 5, 2026, to celebrate Ireland during its presidency of the European Union. The festival will feature ten diverse projects across theatre, dance, music, experimental opera, and children's performances.

Opening with Celtic traditions

The festival will begin on November 1 with the Celtic festival of Samhain, a traditional celebration marking the end of the harvest season and the beginning of winter. This event sets the tone for a program that promises a wide range of artistic expressions.

Theatre and legends

Stephen Rea, a well-known actor associated with Samuel Beckett, will perform Krapp’s Last Tape (La Dernière Bande), directed by Vicky Featherstone. This play is a significant work in the repertoire of Irish theatre and is expected to draw attention from both local and international audiences.

Contemporary dance performances

Irish choreographers Oona Doherty and Michael Keegan-Dolan will present works that reflect the dynamic energy of Irish stage art. Doherty’s Hope Hunt and the Ascension into Lazarus and Keegan-Dolan’s 1975 will be performed by the company Teaċ Damsa, while dancer Emily Terndrup will showcase her solo piece Offspring (A Modern Frankenstein).

Musical and operatic innovations

Composer Jennifer Walshe will debut Some thinking & feeling with the Ensemble Contrechamps, while Michael Gallen will present The Curing Line, a work recognized by the prestigious Fedora Opera Prize. These performances highlight the innovative spirit of Irish musical and operatic creation.

Children's performances and visual poetry

The festival will also include performances for younger audiences, featuring visual poetry by companies Branar (How to catch a star) and Dan Colley (The Maker). These shows aim to engage children through imaginative and artistic storytelling.

Closing with a participatory ball

The event will conclude on December 5 with a large participatory ball, inviting the public to join in a communal celebration of Irish culture and artistry. This closing event aims to leave a lasting impression on attendees and mark the end of the festival.