Stage set for NUI Galway Drama Centre

Planners have given the green light for a new Centre for Drama, Theatre and Performance at NUI Galway.

The centre – which will include an auditorium, box office and bar – is expected to be read for occupation in twelve months time.

The plans involve the redevelopment of around two-thirds of the IMI building at Earl’s Island to include:

■             120-seater flexible auditorium with teaching facilities, control desk and stage management
■             Public foyer with box office and a small bar
■             Backstage changing facilities
■             Three rehearsal rooms, workshop and storage
■             Seminar room with seating for 30 people
■             Administration offices

“The university has a growing ambition in providing teaching and facilities for music and drama. The School of Drama, Theatre and Performance is a comparatively new teaching department and a major priority for the university.

“Currently, there are very limited facilities on the campus for drama and this project represents an ambitious proposal to give the department performance, rehearsal, seminar, workshop and administrative space.

“It is anticipated that the building will be ready for occupation in September 2015,” the application reads.

Part of the building is already used as the college bar and for the Bank of Ireland Theatre. The Marine Science Department occupied more than half of the building, but will be vacating it entirely.

The building dates back to the 1850s, and was a factory and warehouse before being converted for IMI, Irish Metal Industries in the 1930s.

Planners approved the application, and ordered that a conservation architect must monitor work on the site, as the building is a Protected Structure.

A qualified archaeologist must also be part of an expert team to oversee works and a full photographic record of the industrial and scientific features must be supplied to the Council.