Grand Canal Theatre in Dublin

 

DUBLIN, Ireland - The Daniel Libeskind designed Grand Canal Theatre opened on St. Patricks Day breathing new life into the formerly rough and tumble area of the Docklands on the south side of the river Liffey.  Flanked by a new glass office building designed by Duffy Mitchell O'Donoghue and a planned 5-star hotel designed by Manuel Aires Mateus, the Grand Canal Theatre will feature classic and contemporary musical performances, opera, ballet, family shows, dramatic and comedic theatre. 

A striking "red carpet" extends across the Grand Canal Square from the canal dock to the doors of the theatre.  The "carpet" is made of bright-red, resin-glass pavers accented by red glowing angled light sticks.  The square is a lively addition to the area and a gathering place for "brown baggers" from nearby office buildings and condos.  The Grand Canal Square was designed by Martha Schwartz, an American landscape architect and artist with interest in urban projects.  American Pie-man, Don McLean, performs at the Grand Canal Theatre on May 9.