All roads lead to Athlone this spring as Ireland's thriving amateur drama scene takes centre stage.
With over 297 performances delivered by 39 regional drama groups nationwide, the journey to the confined finals of the RTÉ All Ireland Drama Festival 2026 is underway — and the competition has never been more exciting.
Highlighting the heart and heritage of the festival, Director of the RTÉ All Ireland Drama Festival, Michael McGlone, emphasised the vital role local circuits continue to play:
'The drama festival circuit, which touches communities all over Ireland, is the lifeblood of the RTÉ All Ireland Drama Festival, taking place in the Dean Crowe Theatre, Athlone each year. The participating drama groups are given a platform to enhance and fine-tune their production in the hope of qualifying for their All Ireland final at the end of April.At the same time, communities from Tubbercurry to Rush and Newry to Doonbeg are given an opportunity to experience amateur drama of the highest quality on their doorstep and pick their winner.'
Now in its 73rd year, and marking 22 years of RTÉ support, the festival remains a cornerstone of Ireland’s cultural calendar. The open finals will run from April 30th to May 8th under the auspices of the Amateur Drama Council of Ireland at the historic Dean Crowe Theatre, transforming Athlone into the heartbeat of Irish amateur theatre.
ADCI Hon President Liam Hannaway and Abbey Theatre Co-Director Mark O'Brien
The excitement culminates on Saturday, May 9th, when the RTÉ All Ireland Drama Festival Gala Awards will be streamed live on RTÉ Culture. With honours spanning both performance and production — including Best Actor, Best Actress, Best Director, and Best Stage Design — drama groups will compete for prestigious accolades, including the coveted Perpetual Trophy and The Abbey Theatre Award.
For theatre lovers, community supporters, and emerging talent alike, this year’s festival promises storytelling, passionate performances, and unforgettable nights of drama.
To explore local drama festivals happening around the country, go here
