Project Arts Centre

Complete Guide to Project Arts Centre: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Dublin Historical Sites

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Nestled in the heart of Dublin’s iconic Temple Bar, the Project Arts Centre stands as a pillar of Ireland’s contemporary arts landscape. Since its founding in 1967 by visionaries like Jim Fitzgerald and Colm Ó Briain, the Centre has evolved from a grassroots, nomadic initiative into a purpose-built multidisciplinary venue renowned for its experimental programming, inclusivity, and its nurturing of both Irish and international artists. This comprehensive guide provides essential information on visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, and tips for combining your visit with Dublin’s historical sites—offering everything you need for a rewarding cultural experience.

For official details, visit the Project Arts Centre website, Discover Ireland, and Visit Dublin Temple Bar.

Origins and Historical Evolution
The Temple Bar Era and Venue Architecture
Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility
Cultural Significance and Artistic Impact
Role in Local and Global Arts
Milestones and Notable Events
Visuals and Media Resources
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Planning Your Visit: Practical Tips
Nearby Historical Attractions
Contact Information
References

Origins and Historical Evolution

Project Arts Centre was established in 1967 in response to a growing need for experimental, collaborative spaces outside Ireland’s traditional institutions. The inaugural Project Arts Festival, held at the Gate Theatre and other venues, brought together avant-garde theatre, visual arts, and music, laying the foundation for the Centre’s multidisciplinary ethos (Project Arts Centre History). Throughout its early years, the Centre operated from various temporary locations, gaining a reputation for dynamic programming and supporting emerging talent.

In the early 1970s, the Centre secured a more permanent base at South King Street, which enabled further expansion and innovative programming. By 1998, it moved into its custom-designed home at 39 East Essex Street, Temple Bar, becoming a cornerstone of the district’s cultural regeneration (Project Arts Centre Venue).

The Temple Bar Era and Venue Architecture

The Centre’s relocation to Temple Bar in 1998, designed by Shay Cleary Architects, marked a transformative phase. The building features two flexible performance spaces and a dedicated gallery, allowing for simultaneous theatre, dance, music, and visual art events. This adaptability reflects the founders’ original multidisciplinary vision and supports the venue’s role as a hub for innovation and community engagement.

Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility

Gallery and Box Office Hours:
- Tuesday to Saturday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Extended hours on performance nights (open until final curtain, often 10:30 PM)
- Closed Sundays and Mondays outside event times
Tickets:
- Gallery exhibitions: Free admission
- Performances: €10–€30 (standard), with many events offering concessions for students, seniors, unwaged, and groups (Project Arts Centre Events)
How to Book:
- Online via the Project Arts Centre website
- By phone: +353 1 881 9613
- In person at the box office
Accessibility:
- Fully wheelchair accessible with step-free entry, lifts, accessible restrooms, and induction loop systems (Project Arts Centre Accessibility)
- Assistance for sensory or mobility needs available—contact [email protected]
- Guide dogs welcomed; large-print programmes available for select events
Getting There:
- Served by Dublin Bus (routes 14, 15, 27, 39, 83) (Dublin Bus Routes)
- 10-minute walk from Luas Red Line (Jervis or Abbey Street) (Luas Map)
- Close to Tara Street DART station
- Discounted parking (€7) at Fleet Street Car Park with show ticket validation

Cultural Significance and Artistic Impact

Project Arts Centre is recognized as a launchpad for Irish talent—past artists include Gabriel Byrne, Neil Jordan, Liam Neeson, Marina Carr, and U2. The Centre consistently foregrounds experimental, socially engaged art, addressing themes like identity, gender, politics, and social justice. Notable public interventions include the Maser “Repeal the 8th” mural, highlighting the Centre’s active role in civic discourse (Irish Times).

The Project Artists Initiative and open calls encourage participation from underrepresented communities, fostering diversity and international collaboration (Project Arts Centre Open Call). The Centre’s gallery is one of Ireland’s few dedicated solely to contemporary visual art, with exhibitions by Irish and international artists (Discover Ireland).

Role in Local and Global Arts

The Centre produces and commissions original theatre, dance, and visual arts projects, many of which tour nationally and internationally. As a member of networks such as the European Network of Independent Performing Arts, it plays a pivotal role in cultural exchange and the international promotion of Irish talent. Its annual programme includes over 600 events and attracts 60,000+ visitors, making it a mainstay of Dublin’s vibrant cultural scene (MrDublinGuide: Project Arts Centre).

Milestones and Notable Events

Hosted Ireland’s first LGBTQ+ themed performances
Supported works on race, migration, and social change
Integrated digital exhibitions and online events during the COVID-19 pandemic
Premiered landmark productions and exhibitions, including cutting-edge visual art shows such as Eva Richardson McCrea’s “The Decameron / Na Deich Lá” and Ciarán Ó Dochartaigh’s “Vague symptom clinic” (e-flux)

Visuals and Media Resources

Explore virtual tours, high-quality images, and videos of past exhibitions and performances on the Project Arts Centre website, and take advantage of interactive maps for remote exploration of the venue and Temple Bar district.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the Centre’s opening hours?

Gallery and box office: Tuesday–Saturday, 11:00 AM–6:00 PM; open later for performances

How do I purchase tickets?

Online, by phone, or in person; advance booking is recommended

Is the venue wheelchair accessible?

Yes, with step-free access, lifts, and accessible toilets

Are there discounts?

Yes, for students, seniors, unwaged, and groups

Are guided tours available?

Occasionally; check the website for current offerings

Can I take photos inside?

Permitted in galleries, but not during performances unless specified

Is parking available?

Discounted parking at Fleet Street Car Park; limited on-street options

Planning Your Visit: Practical Tips

Arrive early for the best seating and time to explore exhibitions
Combine your visit with nearby attractions in Temple Bar, such as the Irish Film Institute and Temple Bar Gallery and Studios
Use public transport or cycling, as parking is limited
Stay updated by subscribing to the Centre’s newsletter and following on social media
Download the Audiala app for real-time event notifications and ticket releases

Nearby Historical Attractions

Dublin Castle
Christ Church Cathedral
Irish Film Institute
National Gallery of Ireland
Ha’penny Bridge
Temple Bar Gallery and Studios
Gallery of Photography

Temple Bar itself is famous for its cobblestone streets, vibrant street performances, and eclectic cultural venues (Visit Dublin Temple Bar).

Contact Information

Address: 39 East Essex Street, Temple Bar, Dublin 2, D02 RD45, Republic of Ireland
Phone: +353 1 881 9613
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://projectartscentre.ie/

Conclusion

Project Arts Centre is a beacon of artistic innovation and community engagement in Dublin. Its diverse, accessible programming, commitment to inclusivity, and strategic location make it an essential destination for anyone seeking to experience Ireland’s vibrant contemporary arts scene. Plan your visit by checking current events, booking tickets early, and exploring the rich cultural heritage of Temple Bar and Dublin’s historical sites.