🎭 A very special episode from Belfast’s Lyric Theatre! 🎭
This week on Robin & Jane In The Stalls, Robin & Jane head to the iconic Lyric Theatre Belfast to celebrate a landmark moment in Northern Ireland’s cultural history — 75 Years of the Lyric Theatre and the opening of the major new exhibition A House of Play.
Recorded at the Lyric itself, this episode dives into the story of a theatre that has shaped generations of artists, writers and audiences. Robin & Jane meet Clare O’Malley, granddaughter of the Lyric’s visionary founder Mary O’Malley, who reflects on her grandmother’s legacy and the fearless spirit that gave the theatre life back in 1951.
They’re also joined by Claire Murray, Head of Marketing & Development, who gives us a sneak peek at the exciting programme of events planned as part of the anniversary celebrations.
A House of Play: 75 Years of the Lyric Theatre Belfast opens to the public this week and runs from 30 January to 8 November 2026. Curated by Kim Mawhinney, the free exhibition charts the Lyric’s journey from Mary O’Malley’s home on Derryvolgie Avenue to its role today as Northern Ireland’s only producing theatre and a vital creative hub. The exhibition places Mary O’Malley firmly at the heart of the story and highlights the Lyric’s influence on artists such as Seamus Heaney, Brian Friel, Helen Lewis, John Hewitt and Sam McCready.
Expect stunning artworks from the Lyric’s historic New Gallery, rare editions of Threshold magazine, a recreation of the original home theatre, archival treasures, and a newly commissioned artwork by Colin Davidson.
The opening week is packed with special performances, music, poetry, talks and screenings featuring guests including Medbh McGuckian, Anne Devlin, Colin Davidson and more. ✨
Whether you love theatre, Irish arts history, or stories of creative risk and imagination, this is an episode not to miss.
👉 Listen now, subscribe, and join us in celebrating 75 years of a true house of play.
For exhibition details and opening week events, visit www.lyrictheatre.co.uk
#RobinAndJaneInTheStalls #LyricTheatreBelfast #AHouseOfPlay #IrishTheatre #TheatrePodcast #BelfastArts #MaryOMalley #TheatreHistory 🎟️🎶
