Shirley Valentine at Axis Ballymun

Norma Sheahan brings Willy Russell’s Shirley Valentine to Axis Ballymun for one night on Friday 13 November at 8pm, marking 40 years since the play was first written. It suits theatre-goers who know and love the piece already, as well as anyone who has only seen the film version and wants to catch it live.

What to expect

Shirley Valentine follows a 45-year-old housewife who escapes a stale marriage and routine life when an unexpected chance to travel to Greece appears, and finds her way back to her own sense of joy and identity along the way. The play is a one-woman show, staged and performed here by Norma Sheahan, and remains one of the best-known pieces in Willy Russell’s body of work, having previously won an Olivier Award and a Tony Award since it premiered. This production marks its 40th anniversary, giving the run an extra sense of occasion for anyone who has followed the play over the decades.

Axis Ballymun’s theatre programme regularly brings well-known Irish and touring productions to the northside, and a single night booking for an anniversary staging of a play this well regarded is a reasonable draw for audiences from well beyond Ballymun itself. Tickets are €23.

Getting there

Axis Ballymun is on Main Street, Ballymun, Dublin 9, close to the M50/M1 interchange. Dublin Bus routes serving the wider Ballymun and Glasnevin corridor, including the 4, 9 and 40, stop close to the venue, and parking is available nearby.

While you’re in Ballymun

Axis Ballymun runs a full autumn and winter season of theatre and music beyond this single date, so it is worth browsing the wider programme while booking. There is more to explore across Co. Dublin.

Good to know

• Date: Friday 13 November 2026, single performance
• Time: 8:00pm
• Price: €23
• Venue: Axis Ballymun, Main Street, Ballymun, Dublin 9
• Booking: Via axisballymun.ie