Grand Canal Theatre, a dramatic addition to Dublin’s docklands designed by architect Daniel Libeskind, will open its doors for the first time to the public tomorrow. The concept of the Grand Canal Square Theatre and commercial development was to build a powerful cultural presence expressed in dynamic volumes sculpted to project a fluid and transparent public dialogue with the cultural, commercial and residential surroundings whilst communicating the various inner forces intrinsic to the theatre and office buildings. This composition creates a dynamic urban gathering place and icon mirroring the joy and drama emblematic of Dublin itself.
The 2000 seat Grand Canal Theatre is a landmark that creates a focus for its urban context, specifically grand canal square, the new urban piazza at the waterfront of Grand Canal harbour. The architectural concept of the theatre is based on three stages or distinct spaces:
- the theatre;
- the piazza; and
- the multiple level theatre lobby above the piazza.
The theatre becomes the main façade of a large public piazza that has a five star hotel and residences on one side and an office building on the other. The piazza acts as a grand outdoor lobby for the theatre, itself becoming a stage for civic gathering with the dramatic theatre elevation as a backdrop offering platforms for viewing. From its rooftop terrace, the theatre offers spectacular views out over the Dublin harbour.