Historic Firkin Crane Secures Its Future With €200,000 Roof Restoration

One of Cork City's most beloved landmarks has been given a new lease of life, with vital roof works completed on the 170-year-old Firkin Crane in Shandon, securing its future as Ireland's premier dedicated dance venue.

The €200,000 project, supported by Cork City Council and the Arts Council, has addressed long-overdue weatherproofing and structural work on the protected building, ensuring it can continue to serve as a national resource for dance for generations to come.

Built in 1855 as a butter weighing house at the heart of Cork's global export trade, the Firkin Crane has come a long way from its commercial roots. Today, Dance Cork Firkin Crane operates as a 235-seat performance venue of international calibre, complete with four professional studios, artist residencies, accommodation, and a year-round performance programme.

The completion of the roof works coincides with the launch of the organisation's new five-year strategy, which sets out ambitious plans for artistic growth, expanded national and international partnerships, and deeper supports for dance artists at every stage of their careers.

Laurie Uprichard, Executive Artistic Director, said:

"Completing the roof works is a major achievement and a vital step in securing this building for future generations. But it is also symbolic. The Firkin Crane is entering a new rhythm - confident, ambitious and artist-focused. As a national resource for dance and a performance venue of international standard, we are committed to strengthening our support for artists and audiences alike."

Internationally acclaimed Irish choreographer Luke Murphy welcomed the news: "Coming home to the place that made me is always deeply emotional. Dance Cork Firkin Crane has been foundational for so many artists. Knowing it is secure and continuing to invest in dance at a national level is hugely important."

Jean Butler added:

"I love working at Dance Cork Firkin Crane and look forward to returning again soon. It's such an iconic building and an amazing resource for dance artists, so it's fantastic to see investment in its future."

While public funding made the refurbishment possible, the organisation continues to service a remaining loan and faces ongoing conservation costs associated with maintaining a protected heritage structure. With that in mind, Dance Cork Firkin Crane is relaunching its Friends of Firkin Crane membership scheme, with annual support starting from €50.

Membership tiers, including Ally (€100), Advocate (€250), Ambassador (€500), and Artist Friend (€50), offer benefits such as ticket offers, a complimentary glass of wine, and closer engagement with the artistic programme. A dedicated Artist Friend tier provides reduced studio hire rates for professional dance artists.

The organisation is also actively seeking sponsors and benefactors who share its artistic vision.

Laurie Uprichard added:

"Public investment made this essential phase possible. Now we are inviting shared investment from those who believe in dance, in heritage and in Cork's cultural future. The Firkin Crane has always been sustained through collective effort. Together, we can ensure it continues to inspire artists and audiences for decades to come."

The Firkin Crane's story is one of remarkable resilience. After lying dormant following the closure of the Butter Market, the building was secured in 1979 as a future home for dance. Destroyed by fire during renovation works in 1980, it was rebuilt through a public trust chaired by former Taoiseach Jack Lynch and officially reopened in 1992.

For more information on becoming a Friend of Dance Cork Firkin Crane, visit dancecorkfirkincrane.ie or contact box office manager Andrea at andrea@firkincrane.ie or 021 4507487.