The focus of this award includes the development, generation, and creation of theatre; collaboration between artists and organisations; and partnerships with existing theatre organisations, arts centres, or festivals where the collaboration extends beyond the organisation’s core activity. Theatre, as defined by the Arts Council, refers to dramatic or postdramatic work performed live by actors before an audience in the same space or location, incorporating essential elements such as performance, narrative momentum, and dramatic tension.
Under Strand 2 of the Theatre Project Award, applicants may receive up to €26,000. The award seeks to encourage projects that exemplify the live and performative nature of theatre. While the presence of a traditional storyline is not mandatory, the work must align with the broad structure and experience of live theatre. The award excludes proposals for audio drama, radio plays, podcasts, art installations, stand-up comedy, and performance art. Events such as talks or interviews not intrinsic to the performance, and video recordings of performances—unless created for live broadcast or in response to public-health restrictions—are also outside the scope of eligibility. Additionally, projects where the primary art form is not theatre, where performers are not theatre practitioners, or where the focus is participatory rather than performative will not be prioritized for funding.
Eligible applicants include professional artists and organisations working within theatre who are resident or based in the Republic of Ireland. Applicants not residing in the Republic of Ireland may also apply if they can clearly demonstrate how their proposed project will benefit the arts sector within Ireland.
This opportunity provides essential support for artists committed to advancing the art form of theatre through creative exploration, collaboration, and innovative performance practice, ensuring continued vitality and growth of the theatrical landscape in Ireland.
For more information, visit The Arts Council.
