Siamsa Tíre has hosted an annual Festival of Folk every summer since 1968. This festival consists of theatrical productions by the National Folk Theatre’s professional cast of performers. Over the decades, their productions have become renowned for their energy, wildness and sheer passion for tradition.
The festival also includes the interactive Folk Homecoming Exhibition. Using archive photos, audio and video footage, it celebrates the rich diversity of Irish folk culture while highlighting the role Siamsa Tíre has played in nurturing it for over half a century.
There are immersive visitor experiences too. These include members of the National Folk Theatre cast leading visitors on a guided tour of the exhibition, backstage tours, intimate performances from the cast and workshops where participants are taught to play tunes on traditional instruments, sing songs from the Siamsa Tíre repertoire, or dance some traditional steps from the region. These workshops are facilitated by traditional arts masters from the National Folk Theatre Training Academy.
Throughout the rest of the year Siamsa Tíre hosts touring theatrical productions, art exhibitions from local, national, and international artists, musical performances, workshops and more. Its a theatre that showcases the thrilling diversity of Irish culture, from its rich past through to its exciting present and its bright future.
Visit Siamsa Tíre on your next trip for an authentic cultural experience that you will treasure forever.
- Anne Gildea’s How to Get The Menopause and Enjoy It
Anne Gildea’s How to Get The Menopause and Enjoy It Anne Gildea’s How to Get The Menopause and Enjoy It. This event sold out at Siamsa Tíre in 2023 so early booking is advised!
- Niamh Dunne, Bróna McVittie, Cormac Breatnach & Seán Óg Graham
Arts and cultureNiamh Dunne, Bróna McVittie, Cormac Breatnach & Seán Óg Graham Music Network presents a newly curated lineup featuring some of this island’s most original and inventive musicians.
- A Viennese Strauss Gala
Arts and cultureA Viennese Strauss Gala An evening of music that recreates the romance of a bygone age of glamorous soirees, glittering ballrooms, jaunty polkas & wonderous waltzes.
- The Legends of American Country Music
The Legends of American Country Music Now seen by over 350,000 fans live and watched by millions on TV Europe’s No.1 multi award winning show, ”The Legends of American Country" returns for another fantastic night of toe tapping Country nostalgia.
- The Shadow of a Gunman – by Druid Theatre
Arts and cultureThe Shadow of a Gunman – by Druid Theatre Druid O’Casey broke box office records when it was announced in early 2023 and sold-out weeks in advance so early booking is strongly recommended for this national tour of The Shadow of a Gunman.
- Theatre Nights presented by The Light Opera Society of Tralee
Arts and cultureTheatre Nights presented by The Light Opera Society of Tralee Theatre Nights presented by The Light Opera Society of Tralee. A concert for all the family at Siamsa Tíre, Tralee.
- Austen’s Women: Lady Susan presented by Dyad Productions
Arts and cultureAusten’s Women: Lady Susan presented by Dyad Productions Austen’s Women are back – in a brand-new show! Austen’s Women: Lady Susan presented by Dyad Productions.
- Unguarded by Anthony Kinahan
Arts and cultureUnguarded by Anthony Kinahan When a father’s world falls apart, he must battle through obstacles to ensure a future for him & his son. Unguarded by Anthony Kinahan live on stage at Siamsa Tíre, Tralee.
- Revel in top class folk, drama, and traditional Irish music, song and dance stage productions.
- Take part in workshops, be guided backstage, or enjoy intimate performances from traditional artists .
- Explore the many inspiring exhibitions at the venue.
While you're in the area, take a relaxing stroll through Tralee Town Park where the theatre is based. Delight in the Rose Garden, Garden of the Senses, large green areas and children's playground.