Dance Cork Firkin Crane
Cork, Cork
Address
Firkin Crane, John Redmond Street, Shandon, Cork, Cork T23 Y584
Phone
+353 (0)21 450 7487Dance Cork Firkin Crane is a unique, non-profit arts centre and Ireland’s first dedicated "dance house," located in the heart of the historic Shandon area of Cork City. Housed in a distinctive 19th-century rotunda building that originally served as part of the Cork Butter Exchange (opened in 1855), the venue was beautifully restored after a fire in 1980 and reopened in 1992. It features the Smurfit Theatre (a 240-seat professional performance space), four dance studios, and an exhibition space. It is a vital resource for the national dance community, hosting residencies for artists and serving as the permanent home for companies like Cork City Ballet. The building is renowned for its striking architecture and its commitment to presenting a year-round programme of contemporary and traditional dance.
Accessibility
Dance Cork Firkin Crane is a wheelchair-accessible venue with the following features:
Physical Access: There is a ramp leading into the venue and a lift that provides access to the main auditorium.
Seating: There is a dedicated seating section reserved in the theatre for wheelchair users and patrons with mobility issues. These seats cannot be booked online; patrons must contact the Box Office directly (+353 21 450 7487) to reserve them.
Sensory Support: The venue can accommodate neurodivergent audience members in a quiet studio next to the theatre before a show if requested in advance.
Assistance Animals: Registered service/guide dogs are welcome.
Inclusive Focus: The venue is a leader in inclusive dance, serving as the base for the Inclusive Dance Cork (IDC) training programme.
Car Parking
Due to the historic nature of the Shandon area, there is no on-site parking at Firkin Crane. Patrons are advised to use nearby public car parks:
Nearby Car Parks: Several facilities are within a 6–10 minute walk:
North Cathedral Parking (approx. 6 mins)
North Main Street Car Park (approx. 7 mins)
Paul Street Car Park (approx. 7 mins)
Q-Park Carroll’s Quay (approx. 7 mins)
Grattan Street Car Park (approx. 10 mins)
On-Street Parking: Street parking in the immediate Shandon area is very limited.
Café & Bar
Concession Stand: The venue operates a concession stand that opens 45 minutes before performances and during intervals. It serves tea, coffee, wine, soft drinks, water, and sweets/snacks. Both cash and card payments are accepted.
Nearby Dining: The theatre is located in the historic Shandon district, within walking distance of local spots like Maureen’s Bar (often used for collaborative community events) and the Maldron Hotel Shandon.