The venue was built on the site of the former Theatre Royal, which stood in Wexford from 1832.
The building's design received the Royal Institute of the Architects of Ireland's Best Public Building award in 2008.
Its stage is one of the largest in Ireland, capable of housing multi-level sets for grand operatic performances.
The theatre is designed to operate as a 'plug-and-play' venue, allowing for rapid scenery changes during repertory seasons.
The project was completed in 2008 to replace the aging infrastructure of the original Theatre Royal.
The building's acoustic design was developed specifically to handle the demands of operatic vocal projection.
The National Opera House in Wexford is Ireland's first purpose-built opera venue, designed by Keith Williams Architects. It features the O’Reilly Theatre, which provides an intimate acoustic environment with 771 seats. The structure is integrated into the steep, narrow streets of Wexford town, utilizing a cantilevered design to maximize space on a tight urban plot. It serves as the primary home for the annual Wexford Festival Opera, which has gained international acclaim since its inception. The building utilizes a unique horseshoe-shaped auditorium to ensure clear sightlines for all audience members. Its facade is constructed using Irish limestone and glass to complement the surrounding medieval streetscape. The facility contains two distinct performance spaces, the main O’Reilly Theatre and the smaller Jerome Hynes Theatre. It is designed to accommodate complex stage machinery and sophisticated lighting rigs required for large-scale productions.
The upper foyer level, where the glass facade frames the rooftops of Wexford town.
Book tickets well in advance, especially during the October opera festival season.
Arrive early to explore the glass-fronted foyers, which offer elevated views of the town and harbor.
Check the cloakroom facilities before entering the auditorium to ensure a comfortable seating experience.
Do not attempt to park directly on High Street, as it is narrow and pedestrian-heavy; use designated town parking lots instead.
The venue is seasonal, with the highest volume of activity occurring during the Wexford Festival Opera in autumn.
Smart casual or formal dress is customary for evening opera performances; silence is required during all productions.
