Curtains up as drama festival underway in Athlone

The RTÉ All-Ireland Drama Festival 2026 got underway last night, after an official opening performed by RTÉ broadcaster Rick O’Shea.

Speaking on stage in the Dean Crowe Theatre ahead of the opening production, Rick O’Shea joked it was “lovely to be somewhere where people are only saying nice things about RTÉ”.

“I’m currently presenting Arena, and it’s brilliant to be out at an arts event on a weeknight and not in a studio,” said Rick. “RTE’s connection to this event has run for two decades, and more now at this point. It’s a key event in the calendar every year.”

He was joined on stage by Festival Director Michael McGlone and John Keane, Chair of the Amateur Drama Council of Ireland

Mr. Keane welcomed the gathering to the RTE All-Ireland Open finals, on behalf of the Amateur Drama Council of Ireland.

“You are in for a feast of drama over the next nine nights, when you will see the best of what the open circuit had to offer in 2026,” said Mr. Keane.

He also talked about sponsorship playing a crucial part in the running of a festival and acknowledged RTE for their sponsorship of the open finals, year on year. He also thanked those who sponsor preliminary festivals, and his colleagues in the drama movement.

“A huge amount of work goes into the running of an All-Ireland and I’d like to thank Michael McGlone, Doreen Holloway, Regina Bushell and the extended committee,” said Mr. Keane.

The opening play was Heaven by Balally Players.

Tonight sees Wexford Drama Group perform Someone Who'll Watch Over Me

See full list of competing groups here