Acclaimed actor Cillian Murphy and artist Yvonne McGuinness have become the proud owners of the historic Phoenix Cinema in Dingle, County Kerry, Ireland. The couple announced plans to preserve and expand the beloved venue, which has stood as a cultural landmark for over a century.
A Legacy of Cinema and Community
First opened in 1919, the Phoenix Cinema has served as a movie theater, dance hall, and community gathering spot. Recognized by Time Out as one of the “50 Best Cinemas in the UK and Ireland,” it holds deep personal significance for Murphy, who shared:
“I’ve been going to see films at The Phoenix since I was a young boy on summer holidays. My dad saw movies there before me, and we’ve watched films there with our own kids. We recognize what the cinema means to Dingle.”
Vision for the Future
The couple aims to begin a refurbishment project in 2025, ensuring the cinema remains a vibrant hub for both locals and visitors. Beyond film screenings, they plan to transform the venue into a multidisciplinary cultural space. McGuinness expressed their shared ambition:
“We want to open the doors again and expand the creative potential of the site, re-establishing its place in the cultural fabric of this unique town.”
Rich History of the Phoenix Cinema
Nestled in the heart of Dingle, the Phoenix Cinema has endured numerous transformations since its establishment by the Houlihan brothers. After devastating fires in 1921 and 1938, the venue was rebuilt twice, earning its symbolic name and iconic art deco façade.
From the screening of David Lean’s Ryan’s Daughter in 1972 to hosting performances by Rory Gallagher, the Phoenix has long been a cornerstone of Dingle’s artistic and social life. In recent decades, under the stewardship of Michael O’Sullivan, it served as a venue for diverse cinematic offerings, including independent and foreign films.
However, rising costs and declining attendance forced its closure during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021.
A New Era
After three years on the market, Murphy and McGuinness have taken ownership, ensuring the Phoenix’s legacy continues. In their announcement, they reflected on the importance of preserving the cinema’s spirit with the Irish adage: “Bíonn rudaí maithe mall” (“Good things take time”).
With its rich heritage and the couple’s passion for the arts, the Phoenix Cinema is set to remain an integral part of Dingle’s community and cultural identity.
