Watergate Theatre Unveils Strategic Plan to Enhance Facilities

The Watergate Theatre in Kilkenny has announced an ambitious new initiative to improve its facilities and offerings as part of its Strategic Plan for 2025-2029. Unveiled during Culture Night, the plan aims to enhance the theatre’s infrastructure and foster community relationships, emphasizing the themes of space, growth, and inclusion.

Plans for Transformation

A key element of the plan is the conversion of the old Squash Court in the Abbey Quarter into a modern studio and development space. This change reflects the theatre’s commitment to achieving universal access to the arts. The strategic plan acknowledges that some aspects of the existing structure are inadequate for contemporary artistic needs.

Nickey Brennan, Chairman of the Watergate Theatre, expressed his optimism about the future while recognizing the necessity for improvements. “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,” he stated. He highlighted the importance of both essential facilities and enhanced experiences for visitors.

As part of the new strategy, smaller performances may be showcased in the Abbey Quarter once the development is completed. This initiative aims not only to modernize the venue but also to broaden its appeal to diverse audiences.

Community Engagement and Commitment

The theatre’s strategic plan also outlines a commitment to regularly review its Board membership to ensure it reflects diverse community representation. Additionally, the Watergate intends to improve access to workspaces throughout the venue, thereby supporting artists and staff in their creative endeavors.

Throughout the planning process, which began in mid-2023, the Watergate Theatre collaborated with various stakeholders, including the Kilkenny County Council and the Arts Council. The strategic plan was crafted by Joanna Cunningham, Executive Director, with contributions from Emma O’Neill, who designed the strategy, and Susan Coughlan from Art of Change, who facilitated the consultation process.

These developments follow a successful year for the theatre, marked by the granting of permission for essential energy upgrade works by Kilkenny County Council in January 2025. The upgrades include the installation of new insulated cladding in the auditorium and fly tower.

The Watergate Theatre aims to adapt and evolve in response to the changing cultural landscape. As stated in the strategic plan, “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.”

As the theatre embarks on this transformative journey, it remains focused on creating a welcoming, inclusive, and accessible environment for all patrons and artists alike.