Absolut Dublin Gay Theatre Festival

Ireland’s literary scene has long been venerated around the world. And celebrated writer and wit, Oscar Wilde, must surely be the genre’s most famous pin-up boy. Which is why the Absolut Dublin Gay Theatre Festival has adopted this self-confessed ‘genius’ as its iconic figurehead. Clasped between his teeth is a green carnation - buttonhole of choice and sometime symbol of same-sex love among the theatre set.

Established six years ago to commemorate the 150th Anniversary of the birth of Wilde, the Festival aims to encourage and develop all concepts of gay theatre. It provides a theatrical and academic stage for the presentation and development of new and existing works by gay authors or works that have a gay character, theme or relevance. And, in doing so, the event promotes gay people’s contribution to the arts, nationally and internationally. Indeed, the Festival is the only one of its kind in the world dedicated solely and exclusively to international gay theatre.

This year’s Festival runs from Bank Holiday Mon 4  to Sun 17 May and has a programme of theatrical events the envy of most organisers. Groups will be coming to Dublin from South Africa, Australia, America, Spain, Zimbabwe, Poland, France, Canada and the Philippines. And running alongside these productions will be more from the UK and Ireland’s own indigenous companies. This innovative, cutting edge programme of over thirty five theatrical productions in ten Dublin city centre venues clearly establishes the city as the recognised centre for gay theatre.

Drama, comedy, musical theatre, late night cabaret, youth theatre, women’s programme, free events and even a gay rap opera – are all included on this year’s programme. And this year, the Festival will present its landmark 1000th performance.

The event kicks off at The Front Lounge, Parliament St. at 8pm on Thu 30 April with the Absolut Drama Queen Festival Launch. Free cocktails, nibbles and entertainment will toast the new line-up and thank previous participants.

Highlights of the 35 plays at this year’s Festival, together with plenty of special guests will then star in the Gala Concert and Awards Ceremony at The Button Factory on Sun 17 May from 7.30pm. Dress to impress and enjoy a night of great music, drama, dance and glamour. Awards up for grabs include The Oscar Wilde Award for Best Writing, The Micheal Mac Liammoir Award for outstanding performance and The Patrick Murray Award for outstanding contribution to Irish Gay Theatre.

Ticket prices throughout the Festival are kept deliberately low to make the events accessible to all. So, as the slogan says, Don’t attend because it’s gay theatre … attend because it’s good theatre. To book online, log onto  www.gaytheatre.ie or visit the Festival Box Office, 12 East Essex St, Temple Bar, tel: 00353 1 677 8511.