Reviewed by Fionn Davenport
Give us the big picture: What’s the vibe of the place, what’s it like?
Despite its origins as a railway goods handling station for the adjacent Dublin Port, Ireland’s largest indoor arena is a decidedly modern venue, with a capacity of 23,000. It was transformed into its current role in 1988 before being completely redesigned in 2008.
Sounds cool. So what kinds of shows can we catch here?
This is the place to see major acts—mostly musical, but also big-name comedians and, occasionally, high-profile performances and events like Cirque du Soleil and monster truck rallies.
Awesome. How are the seats?
The best seats in the house are in the central column of the first row of tiered seating. The worst seats in the house—at the back of the top tier—are nearly 200 feet from the main stage, which is either not a problem or “I might as well watch this on TV,” depending on your eyesight. The standing room-only pit at the front usually has an age-restriction due to the possibility of a mosh pit situation developing, with most gigs exercising an over-18s or over-16s only policy.
Got it. Can we bring the kiddos?
There are certain gigs to which you must bring your kids—think Monster Truck Rally, or One Direction. This is the venue for those types of big budget shows, where bringing the kids along is not only appropriate, but almost compulsory.
Noted. Any other special features you want to call out, or things to note?
Depeche Mode were brilliant when I saw them here, as was Paul Simon, who toured with his full band and members of Ladysmith Black Mambazo. All to say, this place is strictly for the firmament’s brightest stars.
So all told, why would we come here?
It’s the only arena gig in town.
