One of the most historic buildings in Cork city has been reborn as an arts and cultural venue.
Reputed to be where the poet Edmund Spencer married, the Triskel Christchurch opens with the premiere of a new composition by leading Irish composer John Gibson.
A new chapter in the history of one of Cork's most historic buildings is about to begin. After two years of hard work, Triskel Christchurch is about to throw open its doors.
Dating from the 1700's, the neo-classical Georgian church will form part of an expanded Triskel Arts Centre. According to artistic director Tony Sheehan, the new centre will provide an arthouse cinema, a concert venue, and an exhibition space.
It will be a place for people to come and experience the history of Cork.
The refurbishment cost €4.8 million, funded by the state and Europe. Valerie O'Sullivan, director of corporate affairs at Cork City Council, says that the return on this investment is unquantifiable. Sculptor Vivienne Roche believes that the venue will have a significant impact on the artistic community and people in Cork.
From a historical standpoint, visitors will also be able to explore the crypt beneath the church, the resting place of many notable figures from Cork's past. The centre will additionally host the independent record store Plugd Records and the Corcadorca Theatre Company. The compnay's last production at the Triskel was Disco Pigs, a performance that, according to artistic director Pat Kiernan, played a pivotal role in shaping the early careers of Enda Walsh, Cillian Murphy, and Eileen Walsh.
An RTÉ News report broadcast on 15 April 2011. The reporter is Jennie O'Sullivan.
