Category Archives: News
Are you a young person aged 16 – 24yrs in Kilkenny interested in performing in a super exciting immersive theatre production on the streets of Kilkenny City this summer? If so, Barnstorm Theatre Wants You!
We are thrilled to announce that we are holding Open Auditions for young people from aged 16 – 24 years for our upcoming summer production ‘Home’ by Anna Ní Dhúill.
‘Home’ uses the city as its backdrop, inviting the audience into the world of 18 year old Eimear as she grapples with the reality of moving to Berlin, leaving her friends, and her Home behind. This is an innovative and exciting theatre project born of Kilkenny, exploring the life of a Kilkenny teenager and friends on the cusp of adulthood.
Anna has been supported in writing and developing this play over the last number of years through Barnstorm’s Triptych Project for emerging writers. Following a very successful work-in-progress showing in 2024, we are delighted to bring the work to fruition with a full production as part of AKA this August.
Young people, their voice and experience are at the heart of this production and the community cast will be fully supported by a professional team with Barnstorm’s Artistic Director, Janice de Broithe, at the helm.
This is an ensemble piece with a wide variety of roles up for grabs and the audtions are open to anyone aged 16 – 24yrs.
Rehearsals will take place from July 14th with the performances on 14th and 15th August.
Auditions will take place on the 25th & 28th June in Barnstorm Studio, 3 John Quay, Kilkenny.
To register for auditions please fill in THIS FORM
For more information contact info@barnstorm.ie or call 0567751266
Anna Ní Dhúill is a Barnstorm Youth Theatre Alumnus and an exciting emerging writer across film and theatre with work presented in Ireland and the UK. They have been awarded places on the BBC Writersroom Programme, Screen Ireland’s Spotlight Scheme and the Liverpool Everyman’s Playwrights’ Programme. Their Irish language theatre show Ní Liomsa an Teach Álainn Seo ran in An Taibhdhearc during Galway Theatre Festival to rave reviews in 2024 and was revived for UK and Irish tour earlier this year. Anna is also the Creative Director and co-founder of Cult Collective, a company dedicated to providing opportunities to emerging artists from and living in the south-east of Ireland.
Join us for a very special collaboration with Butler Gallery this Summer!
Running over 3 days, this camp for ages 7 -11, this camp brings theatre and art together in an exciting explosion of creative exploration and activity. Led by professional artists from Butler Gallery and Barnstorm Theatre, the theme of this camp is “A River Flows Through It”, inspired by the River Nore’s connection to Butler Gallery and Barnstorm, as well as its presence running through the heart of the town. Children will investigate flows, ripples, mirroring and working within Art and Theatre disciplines.
Visual Art activities will include mono printing, expressive mark making and 3D paper construction, combining elements into a deep map of a stretch of the river.
Theatre activities will explore the river through movement and narrative sessions, building trust, imagination and exploring the themes through play and storytelling.
This is a fun and dynamic children’s art and theatre summer camp not to be missed, and places are strictly limited so book early to avoid disappointment.
Dates: 1st – 3rd July, 10am – 3pm
Cost: €70
Booking: Children’s Art and Theatre Camp Registration
Barnstorm Youth Theatre (BYT) runs from September to May/June and takes in new members each September
Who can join Barnstorm Youth Theatre?
Anyone aged 10 – 18yrs, from 5th class – 6th year, interested in getting involved!
We aim to make room for everyone who is interested, but this is not always possible due to resources and numbers. When there needs to be a selection of new members, it is based on the gender, geographical and age breakdown of the current group.
In all groups, the material covered is led by the interests and dynamics of the members of that group, guided by our wonderful Facilitators.
How do I join? Fill in this form: HERE
Barnstorm Youth Theatre has Three Group Categories:
Senior (SYT) for 4th – 6th year
Intermediate (IYT) for 1st – 3rd year
Junior (JYT) for 5th and 6th class
Senior Youth Theatre
4th year – 6th year
In term one, this group concentrates on advancing skill development, creative learning and expanding knowledge of performance styles and forms, genre and wider theatre skills such as writing, design and production.
In terms two & three the focus shifts towards the annual production which takes place shortly after the Easter school holidays.
There is an additional time commitment expected for rehearsals, however consideration is given to other commitments e.g. exams, school etc.
Intermediate Youth Theatre
1st year – 3rd year
This group focuses on the foundations of skill development, confidence in performance and learning to build and work within an ensemble.
The year comes to an end with a performance for family and friends. There may be some extra time commitment around the time of production which takes place at the end of May/early June
Junior Youth Theatre
5th class – 6th class
This group is grounded in introducing and immersing the young people in the world of theatre. The focus is on developing skills in performance and theatre-making, building confidence, making friends and having fun.
The year comes to an end with a performance for family and friends. There may be some extra time commitment around the time of production which takes place at the end of May/early June
What our members say:
‘Barnstorm has been one of the best experiences of my life and I will forever treasure the laughs, the shows, the workshops and the incredible friends I made. The confidence and acceptance you gain from being part of this group is unparalleled’ Stephanie
‘Coming out of lockdown and working with such a lovely, fun and talented group of people, getting to know them and work with them, has been amazing. Barnstorm is a place where we can all come and be ourselves, as loud and as mad as we want without being judged, and I am very grateful for it.’ Ruby
‘The Youth Theatre is one of my favourite organisations in Kilkenny. Through it I managed to make friends and enjoy myself immensely.’ Matthew
‘’ …thank you so much for all your hard work and effort over the past two years and I can honestly say that those two years have benefited me tremendously….’ Eimear
Cost:
The annual membership fee is €250.
This includes a registration fee of €70 to secure a place & the balance of €180 is due by December.
There is a discount of €25 per sibling and there are a limited number of scholarships available. Just ask Anja: anja@barnstorm.ie
About Barnstorm Youth Theatre (BYT) in Kilkenny
Founded in 1991, BYT’s main aim is to produce theatre by young people for young people.
Our vision is to make a positive difference to the lives of young people through ongoing meaningful engagement in drama, placing their creative voice at the centre.
Our aim is to empower young people to learn and develop skills, to work as an ensemble and create theatre.
We seek to support our members to build confidence and advance their social, personal and artistic development through creative learning.
No previous experience is required.
The programme includes weekly workshops in ensemble building and skills development during the school year and a production or showing (depending on the group) at the end of the year.
Recent Productions:
SYT:
The House of Oedipus by Anna Galligan (2025)
The Trials by Dawn King (2024)
Macbeth by William Shakespeare (2023)
IYT:
Johnny Baluba, Teenage Detective by Ronan Carr (2025)
Scenes of Dracula by Don Fleming (2024)
The hysterical history of the Trojan War (2023)
JYT:
Don’t Shoot the Messenger by John Morton in collaboration with JYT (2024)
Us and Them by David Campton (2022)
Scattered by James Butler (2019)
In a delightful collision of wit, tragedy, and unexpected connections, “Commencing” by Jane Shepard takes centre stage at Barnstorm’s Lunchtime Theatre series. This award-winning short play invites audiences to witness the magic of a blind date gone awry, where two people find themselves on a journey that defies expectations.
Kelli and her blind date, both quick-witted and unafraid to speak their minds, are deeply marked by their past experiences. Their hope for the future shines through, even as they grapple with unexpected twists.
“Commencing” invites us to reflect on life’s complexities, all while keeping the audience guessing. Prepare for a blend of humour and unexpected connections that will leave you pondering long after the curtain falls.
Performance Details:
- Venue: Barnstorm Studio, 3 John’s Quay, Kilkenny R95T382
- Dates: 24 to 28 June 2024 weekdays at 1pm sharp
- Tickets: Available online at Gr8 Events or on the door
Don’t miss this lunchtime treat—join us for “Commencing” and experience the magic of unexpected encounters.
For media inquiries, please contact: Philip Hardy 056 7751266
Barnstorm’s Lunchtime Theatre series is dedicated to bringing quality theatrical experiences to our community during the lunch hour. Our intimate venue provides a unique setting for short plays, allowing audiences to escape the daily grind and immerse themselves in captivating stories while eating lunch.
Barnstorms’ Adult Theatre Club is starting again in 2024 with a one-year part-time programme, Theatre Production Skills.
An exciting opportunity to join a vibrant and dynamic programme of both training and performances. The 2024 Adult Theatre Club will act as an introduction to local adults who wish to explore, investigate and create theatre as a hobby. In the past, club members have experienced training in everything from improvisation, basic acting and stagecraft to theatre directing and scriptwriting. In the past, club members have experienced training in everything from improvisation, basic acting and stagecraft to theatre directing and scriptwriting. The ATC was first introduced in 2007 in answer to many requests from adults in the region who wanted to know more about theatre and how to make a performance. With a maximum of 14 members each year the alumni from successive groups formed the Barn Owl Players, a vibrant local amateur theatre company that still creates its own unique blend of theatre and theatrical happenings from Tennessee Williams, to John B Keane and from One-Act Festivals to full length plays.
“The Adult Theatre Club is an ideal way of introducing anyone new to acting and theatre in a fun environment; as well as offering local actors a means of honing their skills.” says Participation & Education Officer Jo Hennessy. “No experience is necessary just a keen interest, an open mind and a willingness to try new things” she says.
If you are interested fill in an online Registration Form by Friday 5 January. You can also contact Jo, 056 7751266 or jo@barnstorm.ie, to get a Registration Form
The first session is on the 11 January 2024 and every Thursday evening thereafter from 7.00 to 9.00pm at 3 Johns Quay, Kilkenny R95 T382. Booking is essential, as places are limited
Following the amazing success of its inaugural lunchtime theatre presentation last summer, Barnstorm has another treat for Kilkenny audiences who will be spellbound by Tennessee William’s classic short play ‘Something Unspoken’ this June
“Williams’ masterpiece, which delves into the depth of forbidden love, is an emotional rollercoaster, and this Kilkenny production has been an absolute pleasure to develop” says Joanne Hennessy who directs. “We chose this piece in response to Pride Month in Kilkenny and we are looking forward to sharing the work with everyone.”
Two stalwarts of local theatre, Mags Whitely and Natasha Murray are set to present the new show in Barnstorm’s studio theatre in a lunchtime offering that should entertain and intrigue audiences. Both actors have a long history in the Kilkenny theatre community, having been part of the Barn Owl Players for many years. This lunchtime performance of ‘Something Unspoken’ will be no exception. Whitely and Murray have already earned the praises of their peers for their professional and committed approach to their craft.
Something Unspoken by Tennessee Williams, is set in Meridian, Louisiana in 1958. In the opening scene we find Cornelia Scott, a southern aristocrat, and her widowed secretary, Grace Lancaster. A new age is approaching the Southern aristocracy, and as a result, Cornelia is struggling to keep up with the changes and how to navigate them.
Grace has been Cornelia’s secretary and companion for 15 years, but lately their relationship has become ambiguous.
Cornelia wants to discuss the truth of their hidden emotions, but tensions build as Grace finds it difficult to express her feelings. She has been holding it all in for far too long, and now she is struggling to face the truth. Cornelia is determined to have an honest conversation with Grace, and to finally address the feelings that have been so carefully hidden away for over a decade.
This one-act play is the perfect way to take a break from the office and enjoy a light lunch while being entertained. The performance lasts only 45 minutes, so our office workers can easily fit it into their lunch break and be back in plenty of time.
Tickets are €17 and includes lunch which is presented by the Home Rule Club.; and can be booked HERE
Dates: Limited run from Mon 19th to Sat 24th June at 1pm daily
Following last year’s successful run of XIV, Barnstorm’s Kilkenny Youth Theatre return to Ionad Dara, Goresbridge with their annual production. This year they bring their version of William Shakespeare’s classic Macbeth to the stage.
Macbeth tells the story of the tragic downfall of the warrior Macbeth, whose ambition causes him to abandon his morals and bring about the near destruction of the kingdom he seeks to rule.
The cast of Macbeth includes Matthew Hickey, Chris Power, Liam O’Neill, Anna Eustace, Diarmuid Maher, Eoin Cleary, Medha Trehan, Nell Snyder, Anna Purcell Duff, Ruby Woods, Matthew Downey, Lara Strauss, Jack Hoyne, Helen Doran, Katie Lawlor, Aoibhne Murphy, Aislin Konings Ferrari, Rionach Brady and Charlotte Lockwood Hutchinson.
Macbeth is running on Friday April 28th and Saturday April 29th at 8pm, with a matinee on Saturday at 3pm, in Ionad Dara, Goresbridge, R95 D654.
Tickets are €12.50 /€10 (Under 18’s) and can be booked online HERE
Barnstorms’ Adult Theatre Club is starting in 2023 with a one-year part-time programme, Theatre Production Skills.
The ATC, originally a 2-year course, was first introduced in 2007 in answer to many requests from adults in the region who wanted to know more about theatre and how to make a performance. With a maximum of 14 members each year the alumni from successive groups (2007-2015) formed the Barn Owl Players which has remains a vibrant local amateur theatre company that still creates its own unique blend of theatre and theatrical happenings from Tennessee Williams, to John B Keane and from One-Act Festivals to full length plays.
The 2023 Adult Theatre Club will act as an introduction to local adults who wish to explore, investigate and create theatre as a hobby.
With the support of Kilkenny’s professional theatre company behind the club, this really is an exciting opportunity to join a vibrant and dynamic programme of both training and performances. In the past, club members have experienced training in everything from improvisation, basic acting and stagecraft to theatre directing and scriptwriting.
“The Adult Theatre Club is an ideal way of introducing anyone new to acting and theatre in a fun environment; as well as offering local actors a means of honing their skills.” says new Participation and Education Officer Jo Hennessy. “No experience is necessary just a keen interest, an open mind and a willingness to try new things” she says.
If you are interested fill in an online Registration Form by Friday 27 January. You can also contact Jo, 056 7751266 or jo@barnstorm.ie, to get a Registration Form
The first session is on the 2 February and every Thursday evening thereafter from 7.00 to 9.00pm at 3 Johns Quay, Kilkenny R95 T382. Booking is essential, as places are limited.
After two years of working online, Barnstorm’s Kilkenny Youth Theatre were back in person and delighted to bring their production of XIV (Fourteen) to a live audience.
Originally devised by Sharon Cromwell and Droichead Youth Theatre, XIV is set in ancient Rome and takes place on the day of Liberius’ 14th birthday; the same day the Roman army arrive home from their victory in Britannia. However, the celebrations are short-lived as blood and secrets are spilled, erupting in a catastrophic climax for all involved. Alea Iacta Est.
Director: Rosey Hayes