The Watergate Theatre in Kilkenny sets out exciting new plans

An exciting new dawn has begun at the Watergate Theatre with the unveiling of the theatre’s new Strategic Plan 2025-2029 as part of Culture Night.

The plan outlines the Watergate’s wish to improve a number of aspects of its offering with plans encompassing structural improvements and building relationships.

Much of the plan centres around ‘space, growth and inclusion’ with the four year project outlining plans to increase space and improve facilities and for the betterment of patrons, performers and staff.

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The local theatre, first opened by President Mary Robinson in 1993, has staged countless national, international and world-renowned performances across all genres since opening with its popularity in the community growing year on year.

"Our vision is to achieve universal access to the arts,” the community theatre’s strategic plan states, adding, “while our building is a much loved and cherished community resource, we acknowledge that some elements of the existing structure are no longer fit for purpose in a modern day arts centre."

As a result, the theatre intends to convert the old Squash Court in the Abbey Quarter into a studio and development space.

Watergate Theatre Chairman, Nickey Brennan proudly shared his optimism for the future while acknowledging the need for improvements.

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"We’re aware that the theatre itself is not quite meeting the needs of patrons in many different regards and it’s time that changed," outlining the need for both basics and the finer things a theatre can offer.

In positive news, Mr Brennan teased 'smaller shows' may be showcased in the Abbey Quarter development when completed.
Elsewhere, as part of the plans the Watergate set out its commitment to continually review their Board membership and seek opportunities to ensure representation by diverse community cohorts.

Furthermore, the plan also outlines the goal to improve access to work spaces throughout the theatre.

The theatre also affirmed its intention to engage with stakeholders to invest in the Watergate building to create a welcoming, inclusive, accessible and hospitable environment, while fulfilling their artists’ and team’s need for dedicated spaces to work, create, develop, and gather.

The process of developing the plan began mid-way through 2023 and it has evolved in consultation with the Watergate Board, Executive Team, Artists in Residence, Kilkenny County Council, the Arts Council and the local community.

Meanwhile, this strategy was written by Executive Director Joanna Cunningham with on-going consultation with all key stakeholders. It was designed by Emma O’Neill. Susan Coughlan, Art of Change, was the independent facilitator of the process.

These latest developments continue what has been a largely successful 2025 for the theatre both on and off the stage.

In January, Kilkenny County Council granted permission for much needed energy upgrade works at the theatre.

Amongst the measures included in the project is the installation of new insulated cladding to the auditorium and fly tower of the theatre.

"Our commitment to serving the diverse needs of our community is reflected in our efforts to enhance organisational capacity, foster shared ownership, and maintain relevance in an ever-evolving cultural landscape," the latest strategic plan stated.

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