About Us

Cork Opera House  

About Cork Opera House

There has been a theatre on the present site of the Cork Opera House since 1855. The original structure was designed by Sir John Benson and had been constructed as a Fine Arts Hall for the National Exhibition for Ireland in 1852 before being relocated stone by stone to the site of the old Custom Building in Nelson Square. First named the Athenaeum, then the Munster Hall and, finally, the Opera House, it stood for one hundred years until it was destroyed in a fire in 1955.

History 

The Changing face of Cork Opera House

'The Opera House in Cork began its life as the 'Athenaeum', after the old Greek centres of culture and art. It was built by the trustees of the 'Royal Cork Institution' at a cost of £6,ooo. Its architect Sir John Benson had been responsible for many of the architectural features of the city. It was built for the 'promotion of science, literature and the fine arts, and the diffusion of architectural knowledge'. It was to be used for the purpose of lectures, meetings, and experiments and for the formation of a museum and the collection of fine arts in connection with such subjects. It was also to be used for balls and other assemblies and sometimes for concerts and was equipped for theatrical performances.'

Location Map 


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Tech Specification 

Stage Specification

Links 

Title Sponsors

Irish Examiner

The Irish Examiner continues its long time support of Cork Opera House by coming on board as title sponsor of Cork Opera House.  The newspaper’s sponsorship of the Opera House brings together two great institutions committed to the development of the arts and entertainment in Cork. 

General Info & FAQ 

F.A.Q.

Where can I park? 

Paul Street car park stays open until midnight. In the event of Paul Street car park being closed (Sundays etc) customers could get a parking space on Pope's Quay near St Mary's Church. 

Q. Where can I stay?

A. If you are planning on staying the night in Cork, we recommend our Accommodation Partners Vienna Woods Hotel. Situated within a short distance from Cork City, Vienna Woods offer entertainment packages to suit every need. Click here to find out more and to make a reservation.

Q. Where can I eat?

A. Our new HOUSE cafe serves beautiful treats and delicious coffess and teas!