Watergate Theatre Unveils Ambitious 2025-2029 Plan for Growth

BREAKING: The Watergate Theatre in Kilkenny has just announced an ambitious new Strategic Plan 2025-2029 during the much-anticipated Culture Night, aiming to transform its facilities and enhance community engagement. This urgent initiative focuses on structural improvements and fostering relationships, emphasizing the themes of space, growth, and inclusion.

The theatre, which first opened in 1993 by former President Mary Robinson, has been a cornerstone of the local arts scene, hosting numerous acclaimed performances. However, the new plan acknowledges the need for modernization to meet contemporary demands. “Our building is a much-loved community resource,” the plan states, “but some elements are no longer fit for purpose in a modern-day arts centre.”

To address this, the Watergate Theatre plans to convert the old Squash Court in the Abbey Quarter into a versatile studio and development space, enhancing the experience for both patrons and performers. Nickey Brennan, Chairman of the Watergate Theatre, expressed optimism for these developments, emphasizing the necessity of meeting the diverse needs of the community.

“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,” Brennan stated.

In a promising outlook, the plan hints at the potential for showcasing smaller shows in the new Abbey Quarter development once completed, further enriching the local cultural landscape.

The strategic plan also highlights a commitment to ongoing diversity in Board membership and representation of various community cohorts. The theatre aims to enhance access to workspaces and engage stakeholders to invest in creating a welcoming, inclusive, and accessible environment for all.

This initiative follows a successful year for the theatre, which includes the recent approval from Kilkenny County Council for critical energy upgrade works. The upgrades will feature new insulated cladding for the auditorium and fly tower, significantly improving the building’s sustainability.

The development of this strategic plan commenced in mid-2023, involving consultation with the Watergate Board, Executive Team, Artists in Residence, and local stakeholders, including the Arts Council. Executive Director Joanna Cunningham led the initiative, with design by Emma O’Neill and facilitation from Susan Coughlan of Art of Change.

The Watergate Theatre’s commitment to evolving and meeting diverse community needs reflects its dedication to fostering cultural engagement. As this plan unfolds, it promises to reshape the theatre’s role within the Kilkenny community and set a new standard for accessibility in the arts.

Stay tuned for further updates on the Watergate Theatre’s transformation as it embarks on this exciting journey!