Venue Theatre

Overview

Venue Theatre sits on Main Street in the heart of Ratoath, the bustling market town that anchors the Boyne Valley. Housed within the Ratoath Community Centre, the venue is a focal point for both professional touring acts and home‑grown amateur groups. Its flexible auditorium can shift from an intimate puppet stage to a full‑scale comedy house, making it a lively cultural hub for locals and visitors alike.

Community Hub & Facilities

The theatre is part of a larger community complex that includes a childcare creche, sports campus and a range of classes for all ages. From yoga and fitness sessions to art workshops, the centre aims to “enrich and enhance the quality of community life” for everyone from toddlers to retirees. This multi‑use environment means you can often combine a performance with a family‑friendly activity or a quick coffee in the on‑site café.

History & Background

Although the exact founding year is not recorded, Venue Theatre quickly established itself as a cornerstone of Meath’s artistic scene. Its mission – to present dance, music and a mix of professional and amateur companies – is set out on the Discover Boyne Valley site and reflected in the diverse programme on offer.

Programme Highlights 2026/27

The 2026/27 season already boasts a varied line‑up, for example:

• Vittorio Angelone – 23 April 2026 (solo piano recital)
• “Annie” – 29 April – 2 May 2026 (Ratoath Musical Society production)
• Seamus O’Rourke – 15 May 2026 (contemporary dance showcase)
• The Andrea Bocelli Experience – 30 October 2026 (tribute concert)
• ABBA FOREVER – 18 December 2026 (pop‑music extravaganza)
• The Piano Man – 3 October 2026 (tribute to Billy Joel)

These listings are taken from the theatre’s official schedule on https://www.thevenueratoath.ie/. The programme continues to evolve, with regular family‑friendly puppetry, comedy nights and workshops throughout the year.

What to See & Do

A Programme That Defies Categorisation

• Dance – From cutting‑edge contemporary pieces to traditional Irish step‑dance showcases.
• Music – Folk, classical, jazz and pop concerts, often pairing local talent with touring acts.
• Puppetry & Multimedia – Immersive productions that blend live puppetry with digital projection, perfect for children and curious adults.
• Clowning & Comedy – Ranging from slap‑stick family shows to adult‑oriented stand‑up.

The venue also runs seasonal festivals, community workshops (e.g., dance‑for‑all ages, music‑making sessions) and occasional Christmas productions such as the popular “Santa and the Magical Christmas Tree”.

Engaging the Whole Family

Family‑focused shows are scheduled especially during school holidays. The intimate auditorium brings audiences close to the performers, creating a shared experience that larger venues can’t match.

Supporting Local Arts

Beyond the mainstage, the space is used as a rehearsal hub for groups like the Ratoath Musical Society and other amateur societies, offering visitors a glimpse of grassroots creativity in action.

Recent Highlights & Media Coverage

• Irish Times Review (2007) – The venue hosted The Tinkers Curse, a new play by Michael Harding, receiving a full review in the Irish Times.
• The Kanyu Tree Event (2012) – A pop‑rock concert featuring The Fallen Drakes and The Kanyu Tree attracted a young audience for a €10 all‑ages show.
• Luan Parle & Clive Barnes (2018) – The acclaimed singer‑songwriter Luan Parle and guitarist Clive Barnes performed a sold‑out night, highlighted on the venue’s news feed.
• YouTube Spotlight – Performances such as The Webb Sisters have been uploaded, showcasing the venue’s acoustic qualities.

These events illustrate the venue’s blend of emerging Irish talent and established acts.

Community Classes & Workshops

The Ratoath Community Centre, home to Venue Theatre, runs a year‑round programme of classes:

• Dance‑for‑All – From traditional set dancing to contemporary movement.
• Music‑Making Sessions – Open‑mic evenings and instrumental workshops for beginners.
• Creative Arts – Painting, pottery and digital media courses for children and adults.
• Well‑being – Yoga, pilates and mindfulness classes in the adjoining sports campus.

All activities are open to residents and visitors, with many sessions offering a free trial.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

• Monday – Friday: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
• Saturday: 10:00 am – 2:00 pm
• Sunday: Closed

These hours apply to the box office and the community centre facilities; performance times vary per event.

Getting There

Venue Theatre is a short walk from the Ratoath bus stop and a few minutes’ drive from the M1. Street parking is available on the surrounding roads, though spaces can fill quickly during popular events. There is no dedicated car park on site.

Accessibility

Wheelchair‑accessible seating is provided, and assistance is available for patrons with hearing impairments. For specific requests, contact the box office on the phone number above.

Sponsorship Opportunities

The theatre offers a seat‑sponsorship scheme: supporters can fund a new seat for ten years, with a personalised plaque placed on the seat. This programme helps sustain the venue’s non‑profit activities while giving sponsors a lasting legacy in the community.

Nearby Attractions

• Bective Abbey – a historic Cistercian ruin just a short drive away. Learn more at /bective-abbey/.
• Royal Canal Greenway – scenic walking and cycling route that passes close to the centre.
• Royal Tara Golf Club – a well‑maintained course offering a pleasant post‑show stroll.
• Boyne Valley sites – the venue’s location makes it an ideal base for exploring the wider Boyne Valley, including Brú na Bóinne and the Battle of the Boyne visitor centre.

For the latest programme, ticket prices and any changes to opening times, please check the official website or call the box office.