Sky’s the limit at Firkin Crane

Roof works have been completed on a 170 year old building in Cork city.

Firkin Crane, a protected building in Shandon that serves as Ireland’s first dedicated dance house, has had a vital and long-overdue refurbishment, securing its future of one of Leeside’s most distinctive historic landmarks.

The project safeguards the long-term stability and weatherproofing of the structure, ensuring it can continue to operate as a national resource for dance.

Supported by Cork City Council and the Arts Council, the €200,000 investment protects both an architectural treasure and a vital cultural space at the heart of the city.

The completion of the roof works marks a pivotal moment for the organisation, which has also unveiled a new five-year strategy outlining plans for artistic growth, expanded national and international partnerships, and enhanced supports for artists at every stage.

Executive Artistic Director Laurie Uprichard said: “Completing the roof works is a major achievement and a vital step in securing this building for future generations. But it is also symbolic. The Firkin Crane is entering a new rhythm - confident, ambitious and artist-focused. As a national resource for dance and a performance venue of international standard, we are committed to strengthening our support for artists and audiences alike.”

Internationally acclaimed Irish choreographer Luke Murphy said: “Coming home to the place that made me is always deeply emotional. Dance Cork Firkin Crane has been foundational for so many artists. Knowing it is secure and continuing to invest in dance at a national level is hugely important.”

Jean Butler also praised the investment: “I love working at Dance Cork Firkin Crane and look forward to returning again soon,” she said. “It’s such an iconic building and an amazing resource for dance artists, so it’s fantastic to see investment in its future.”

While the refurbishment was made possible through public funding, the organisation continues to service a remaining loan and faces ongoing conservation costs associated with maintaining a protected heritage building. It is now inviting the public to support its next chapter through the relaunch of its Friends of Firkin Crane membership scheme, with annual support levels beginning at €50.

The organisation is also seeking engagement with sponsors and benefactors aligned with its artistic vision.

“Public investment made this essential phase possible,” said Laurie Uprichard.

“Now we are inviting shared investment from those who believe in dance, in heritage and in Cork’s cultural future. The Firkin Crane has always been sustained through collective effort. Together, we can ensure it continues to inspire artists and audiences for decades to come.”

With its roof secured and a renewed call for community backing, Dance Cork Firkin Crane is positioning itself to protect and grow one of Ireland’s most important dance institutions for decades to come.

For more information about becoming a Friend of Dance Cork Firkin Crane or to support the campaign, visit dancecorkfirkincrane.ie.

Located in the historic Shandon district beneath the bells of St Anne’s Church, the Firkin Crane was built in 1855 as a butter weighing house at the heart of Cork’s global export trade.

Today, Dance Cork Firkin Crane is Ireland’s first dedicated dance house - a 235-seat performance venue of international calibre and a year-round creative hub.

It has four professional studios, residencies, artists’ accommodation, technical support and an extensive performance programme, supporting dance artists from across Ireland and beyond.