Siamsa Tíre’s supporters play a vital role in ensuring that The National Folk Theatre of Ireland remains a celebrated institution, rooted in the Tralee community but accessible to a worldwide audience. The theatre serves as a modern-day way to interact with the heritage and culture of Ireland, one where the audience can experience the past, present and future, through theatre, dance, musical productions and art exhibits.
Siamsa Tíre is a registered charity and contributions that are made will ensure the development of live events, on-demand video content and a strong return to in-person, live theatre offerings.
Additionally, your donation provides critical support to artists and invests in the future of Irish heritage and culture. A donation of any amount is appreciated and will help to support ongoing initiatives and vital community enriching programmes when the theatre reopens.
How your donation will support Irish arts, culture and heritage
The Annual Festival of Folk
Each year, Siamsa Tíre hosts the Festival of Folk which celebrates the best of Irish music, song and dance. The National Folk Theatre is Ireland’s only theatre company dedicated to the preservation and development of the Irish arts in folk theatre that has been developed over more than fifty years. This festival begins in May and continues until the end of September, and features performances, exhibitions and workshops that are enjoyed by locals and tourists alike. Our format may be a little different this year with the impact of COVID-19 and any restrictions that may be in place, however, our premier traditional artists and folk theatre will be at the heart of our reimagined offerings to ensure our visitors continue to enjoy Ireland’s most authentic Irish cultural experience.
Free Radicals Youth Theatre
Siamsa Tíre runs the Free Radicals Youth Theatre, which has been set up to create a safe space for young people (aged from 15-20 years) to explore the world using the medium of drama. The group is a member of the Youth Theatre Ireland and offers a vital introduction to the arts and safe space for members.
Training with the National Folk Theatre
Siamsa Tíre’s performing company extends beyond professionals, incorporating an extended Community Cast who have trained and performed with the company for more than fifty years. Many members of the 100-person cast have been involved since childhood and some have gone on to achieve national and international success as performers. Training programme admission is based on an audition process and open to young talent (age 7-12), teenagers (age 13-17) and adult classes (age 18 +). Offering training for all age groups ensures community involvement, fosters the continuation of tradition and creates future interest in the arts and heritage.
Make a donation today of whatever you can afford, to support these important programmes that are preserving and promoting Irish arts and culture.
