I highly recommend a visit to The Pablo Picasso Exhibition currently on in The National Gallery, Dublin, which is a collection of work from his studio (which he would apparently not sell).
This wonderfully curated show is visually stunning with a wide selection of his art work over different periods. It is a celebration of the Picasso’s long life and continued need to paint and create and work until just before he died.
It is interesting on every level and entertaining and also backed up with a detailed and helpful telling of his life story. The additional filmed clips of Picasso being interviewed, making ceramic pottery doves to be fired in a local pottery and relaxing in his garden in the south of France bring a sense of intimacyand connection to the show.
The exhibition opened in October and will run until the 22nd February 2026. Tickets are available from the National Gallery but must be booked in advance, with children going free.
Another one to watch out for is The Gate Theatre’s stage adaption of ‘Poor’ by Katriona O Sullivan. It is a rare theatre experience to see such a powerful and heart rending account of a childhood of poverty, neglect and abuse turned in to such a triumphant and deeply involving play. I loved the book but seeing Sonya Kelly’s adaption is a very special experience and makes you realise the power of good drama, acting and direction (Roisin McBrinn), in bringing this complex story to life. There were stunning performances from young Pippa Owens (child) and Aisling O’Mara (adult) and Hilda Fay (mother).
‘Poor’ sold out its run in October but following rave reviews will return to the Gate Theatre on 13th March and run until 26th April 2026 so …get booking.
Marita Conlon-McKenna 