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Mark O’Brien

@obrienpmark.bsky.social
1.7K followers 215 following 763 posts

Executive / Co-Director of the Abbey Theatre, Ireland’s National Theatre. Like a bit of Theatre, Music, Books, Film, TV, Football, Hurling, Man Utd and a bit of whatever you’re having yourself. All views my own… I think.

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Mark O’Brien @obrienpmark.bsky.social · 25/09/2026
Happy 50th Birthday U2 Saw you live first time 41 years ago. Lifetime memories. Onwards
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Ireland Ticker @irelandticker.bsky.social · 21/09/2026
Tender: Abbey Theatre Amharclann na Mainistreach<br>Provision of IT Managed Services<br>The Contracting Authority is seeking a suitably experienced and qualified firm to supply IT Managed Services for the Abbey Theatre’s pre www.etenders.gov.ie/epps/cft/prepar…
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Abbey Theatre - The National Theatre of Ireland @abbeytheatre.bsky.social · 22/09/2026
Discover Late Nights at the Abbey this autumn and winter with #DublinByDusk 💫 We are delighted to launch a series of late night events full of music, chats, and maybe even some dancing... Join us on 24 September for Party ANIMALS, an immersive evening of theatre and music: bit.ly/4yesSIW
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Late Nights at the Abbey: Party ANIMALS - Abbey Theatre
In collaboration with Dublin by Dusk, the Abbey Theatre is delighted to launch a series of late night events full of music, chats, good fun and maybe even some dancing. Taking place the last Thursday ...
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Abbey Theatre - The National Theatre of Ireland @abbeytheatre.bsky.social · 17/09/2026
Show Announcement 📣 The Abbey Theatre presents a Hatch Theatre Company production of Casual, written by Meadhbh McHugh and directed by Annabelle Comyn. Running from 28 November - 19 December 2026 on the Peacock Stage, tickets are now on sale: bit.ly/4xwSb7P 🎨 Gareth Jones
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Abbey Theatre - The National Theatre of Ireland @abbeytheatre.bsky.social · 15/09/2026
📣 The T. S. Eliot Estate and the Abbey Theatre present: The T. S. Eliot Lecture 2026 with Zadie Smith The eleventh lecture in a series inspired by T. S. Eliot’s impact on modern literature, this title of this year's lecture is Radical Intimacy: On Sally Rooney. Book now: bit.ly/3P2Rqho
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Christopher J Stevens @metaphysiology.bsky.social · 13/09/2026
Just finished this tonight. Blistering performances indeed from Emmy Rossum and our own Lola Petticrew, superbly executing a script designed to pull you in as a viewer by perfectly playing you into cocky guard-dropping presumptuousness again and again.
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Mark O’Brien @obrienpmark.bsky.social · 11/09/2026
What a goal tonight from Stephen Walsh for Galway tonight against Bohs. @galwayunitedfc.bsky.social
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Performing Arts Forum @pafireland.bsky.social · 11/09/2026
📣 #jobfairy 👉 Marketing Officer @abbeytheatre.bsky.social ▶Create and manage content for promotional campaigns for Abbey Theatre presentations and events, including festivals. More duties and job description below⤵ 📋 www.performingartsforum.ie/job/marketin... ⏰Closing Monday 21 September
#JobFairy Beside Performing Arts Forum Logo
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Abbey Theatre - The National Theatre of Ireland @abbeytheatre.bsky.social · 11/09/2026
Pat Shortt appeared on Newstalk Breakfast to chat all about his Abbey Theatre debut as the iconic Erskine Fogarty in ANIMALS. 📻 Coming to the Abbey Stage from 23 September, listen back to Pat's full interview now: bit.ly/4yA68mt 📸 Ste Murray
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Culture Night Dublin @culturenightdub.bsky.social · 11/09/2026
The Abbey Theatre Archives 🎭 @abbeytheatre.bsky.social The Abbey Theatre marks 60 years in its current building, with archivist Mairéad Delaney leading a special presentation tracing the theatre's remarkable history from its founding to today. culturenight.ie/event/the-ab...
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Dr Robert Bohan @robertbohan.bsky.social · 10/09/2026
The Abbey belongs to the Irish people & tickets are really cheap to see some of the world’s greatest actors. It was a fundamental part of the revolutionary times that led to Irish independence. It has a kids theatre too [I was first there in 1977]. Political theatre is authentic here!
abbeytheatre.ie
History - Abbey Theatre
Learn more about the history of the National Theatre of Ireland, since its founding in the heart of Dublin in 1904.
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Abbey Theatre - The National Theatre of Ireland @abbeytheatre.bsky.social · 09/09/2026
Paul Mescal joined by Ciarán Hinds as further casting announced for Abbey Theatre and National Theatre of Great Britain co-production of Tom Murphy’s A Whistle in the Dark. Directed by Caitríona McLaughlin and set for the Abbey Stage in October 2027, read more on our website: bit.ly/4gJE3mv
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Paul Mescal joined by Ciarán Hinds as further casting announced for Abbey Theatre and National Theatre of Great Britain co-production of Tom Murphy's A Whistle in the Dark - Abbey Theatre
Tickets will go on sale next year for Murphy's seminal Irish classic, set for the Abbey Stage in October 2027.
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Abbey Theatre - The National Theatre of Ireland @abbeytheatre.bsky.social · 08/09/2026
📣 Come work at the National Theatre of Ireland! The Abbey Theatre are seeking a dynamic and creative Marketing Officer. Deadline for applications is Monday 21 September 2026. Full job spec and application details are available on our website: bit.ly/4yuSjpo 📸 The Boy (2025), Ros Kavanagh
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Mark O’Brien @obrienpmark.bsky.social · 05/09/2026
A few words on Katie Taylor substack.com/@obrienpmark...
substack.com
A few words on Katie Taylor
You could feel it from a very early age even though you might not have known exactly what it was at the time.
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Mark O’Brien @obrienpmark.bsky.social · 04/09/2026
Well now that’s some entrance to La Liga. Come on as a sub and score the winner against Real Madrid. Viva Troy Parrott. @realbetisen.bsky.social
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Katy Hayes @katyhayze.bsky.social · 01/09/2026
My review of Mirandolina, Marina Carr's version of Carlo Goldino's Italianclassic, at the Abbey Theatre in Dublin. www.independent.ie/entertainmen...
independent.ie
Theatre review: Italian classic comedy ‘Mirandolina’ given a stark Irish underbelly
Playwright Marina Carr turns 1753 play into a hard-hitting examination of the vulnerability of young women in the matters of romance and seduction
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Mark O’Brien @obrienpmark.bsky.social · 02/09/2026
I believe that if these performances were by men they’ld be taken way more seriously, we would hear way more about them.That’s what I mean about the comparison to De Niro/Pacino in the 70’s. One’s gender shouldn’t define cultural weight, relevance or myth making but it does unfortunately.
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Mark O’Brien @obrienpmark.bsky.social · 02/09/2026
I believe that if these performances were by men they’ld be taken way more seriously, we would hear way more about them.That’s what I mean about the comparison to De Niro/Pacino in the 70’s. One’s gender shouldn’t define cultural weight, relevance or myth making but it does unfortunately.
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Mark O’Brien @obrienpmark.bsky.social · 02/09/2026
If you haven’t watched Furious then I would advise you to do so immediately. Top notch all round but the performances from Lola Petticrew and Emmy Rossum are out of this world. These are at the level of De Niro and Pacino in the 70’s.Shades of Taxi Driver, Serpico and more here. Blistering
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David O’Doherty @phlaimeaux.bsky.social · 27/08/2026
Due to The Abbey Theatre being sold out, I hereby announce a fresh Dublin date, in Vicar Street on Nov 21st. Join Doddles: aikenpromotions.com/show/david-o...
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Mark O’Brien @obrienpmark.bsky.social · 27/08/2026
Never believe that there isn’t enough love, beauty and joy in the world to go around. It just needs to be actively and defiantly cultivated. It multiplies when shared & lives in song and story. Cynicism can never win, our shared culture won’t let it happen. This is beautiful
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Mark O’Brien @obrienpmark.bsky.social · 27/08/2026
Never believe that there isn’t enough love, beauty and joy in the world to go around. It just needs to be actively and defiantly cultivated. It multiplies when shared & lives in song and story. Cynicism can never win, our shared culture won’t let it happen. This is beautiful
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TheBlindboyPodcast @blindboyboatclub.bsky.social · 24/08/2026
Blindboys 2026/27 live tour. London, Glasgow, Brisbane and Perth SOLD OUT. Sydney Opera House, last tickets. Blindboys play, “Animals” will get its world premiere in The Abbey Theatre this September
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Mark O’Brien @obrienpmark.bsky.social · 25/08/2026
"When I'm done, I can rest in peace knowing I've done my best. I hope that when my time comes, I'll leave something behind that others can use to lift themselves up." Rest in Music Dolly Parton
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Must Be Malahide @mustbemalahide.bsky.social · 22/08/2026
Ulster American / Very funny Abbey Theatre Dublin www.abbeytheatre.ie
abbeytheatre.ie
Abbey Theatre
As the National Theatre of Ireland, the Abbey Theatre’s ambition is to enrich the cultural lives of everyone with a curiosity for and interest in Irish theatre, stories, artists and culture.
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Mark O’Brien @obrienpmark.bsky.social · 22/08/2026
Album of the day for all us United fans #mufc
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Abbey Theatre - The National Theatre of Ireland @abbeytheatre.bsky.social · 18/08/2026
To celebrate #CultureNight 2026, join us for a dive into the Abbey Theatre Archives 🔎 📅 Friday 18 September ⏰ 4 & 5PM 🎟️ Tickets are free but must be booked in advance. www.abbeytheatre.ie/whats-on/cultur…
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Christian Christensen @chrchristensen.bsky.social · 18/08/2026
For the 100,000th time…and in the interests of discussions about journalism that rise above the juvenile: “In the public interest” is not defined as “what the public is interested in.”
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Abbey Theatre - The National Theatre of Ireland @abbeytheatre.bsky.social · 11/08/2026
📣 Spread the news! We're hiring a Casting and Producing Assistant The Abbey Theatre requires an interim Casting and Producing Assistant for 12 months. The role will support the smooth and effective day-to-day operation of the Casting Office and the Producing Department. bit.ly/3TPmZCC
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David O’Doherty @phlaimeaux.bsky.social · 12/08/2026
The Irish debut of new stand-up show ‘At This Stage’ is at The Abbey Theatre on Sept 6th. Tickets were sold out, now there are more: www.fringefest.com/festival/wha...
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Colette Carroll ♑️ 💙 @carrcole.bsky.social · 12/08/2026
Oof, that was good. Claire's da writes good (but I've known that since Cypress Avenue). Thanks @abbeytheatre.bsky.social for #UlsterAmerican
The programme for the play Ulster American by David Ireland at The Abbey Theatre Dublin
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Mark O’Brien @obrienpmark.bsky.social · 29/07/2026
The man I knew was an artist to his core, a deep connector, and carried Ballymun in his soul. I am deeply deeply shocked at his passing. My condolences to his wife Maire, his son Christy, his family, bandmates and friends #RIP #GlenHansard
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Mark O’Brien @obrienpmark.bsky.social · 29/07/2026
an unforgettable magic. (notwithstanding a few bum notes from me 🤣) The proceeds from these gigs went to facilitate young musicians from the area rehearse and record in the studios there. 🧵/2
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Mark O’Brien @obrienpmark.bsky.social · 29/07/2026
I’m am utterly shocked at hearing the news of Glen’s passing. I had the privilege of working in Ballymun for many years and Glen gave of his time and talent on many occasions to his community including two unforgettable nights in the axis theatre where he created 1/🧵
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David O’Doherty @phlaimeaux.bsky.social · 31/07/2026
My new show ‘At This Stage’ opens in Edinburgh on Wednesday. The Irish premiere is in The Abbey Theatre on Sept 6. JOIN ME: assemblyfestival.com/whats-on/dav...
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Mark O’Brien @obrienpmark.bsky.social · 29/07/2026
I’m am utterly shocked at hearing the news of Glen’s passing. I had the privilege of working in Ballymun for many years and Glen gave of his time and talent on many occasions to his community including two unforgettable nights in the axis theatre where he created 1/🧵
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Mark O’Brien @obrienpmark.bsky.social · 29/07/2026
Am in complete and utter shock
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Denise @deniseaoc.bsky.social · 26/07/2026
Another day, another play ... went to #TheWhiteheadedBoy @abbeytheatre.bsky.social on Friday. It was a ✨️tonic✨️. Hilarious, I laughed so much. Anna Healy & Andrew Bennett in particular were great, the soundtrack was brilliant, and I LOVED the final scene.
Programme and set for The Whiteheaded Boy at Abbey Theatre.
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Ann @slowrunner1.bsky.social · 25/07/2026
What a treat to see Lennox Robinson's play at the Abbey! Super cast and crew too! #theatre @abbeytheatre.bsky.social
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Mark O’Brien @obrienpmark.bsky.social · 26/07/2026
Agus an ghrian ag dul faoi ar shéasúr eile, treoróidh na tinte cnámh na buaiteoirí abhaile go Caisleán an Bharraigh. Comhghairdeas @mayogaaoffical.bsky.social @officialgaa.bsky.social, na himreoirí agus an fhoireann bhainistíochta ar fad. Bainigí taitneamh as
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Mark O’Brien @obrienpmark.bsky.social · 25/07/2026
This company brought so much joy to to audiences over the summer @abbeytheatre.bsky.social Raising a glass as they take their final bow tonight. Congrats Annie Ryan, Lennox Robinson, all the cast, creatives, staff & audiences. Sláinte do gach duine a chuir lúcháir ar ár gcroíthe. Ar aghaidh linn.
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Mark O’Brien @obrienpmark.bsky.social · 20/07/2026
Rest in power Kevin Keegan. A superstar that went on superstars (which was an amazing childhood programme of mine) Even though he played for Liverpool he was one of my favourites back in the day. And anyone that stood up to Thatcher…
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Mark O’Brien @obrienpmark.bsky.social · 19/07/2026
Viva España Tonight Spain will show that they are the best ‘team’ in the world. If they play the way they did against France, Argentina won’t be able for it.
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Mark O’Brien @obrienpmark.bsky.social · 17/07/2026
An extraordinary actress An extraordinary person Codladh Sámh Brenda Fricker
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Mark O’Brien @obrienpmark.bsky.social · 16/07/2026
“To take all the responsibility on themselves for losing is some type of perverse arrogance. England didn’t lose that match. Argentina won it.” Some words on the World Cup Semi-Final #Argentina  v #england  open.substack.com/pub/obrienpm...
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Mark O’Brien @obrienpmark.bsky.social · 15/07/2026
Lesson in Grammar tonight for England. It’s not coming home They’re coming home
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Mark O’Brien @obrienpmark.bsky.social · 15/07/2026
For the night that’s in it. What is not talked enough about this goal is the fact that Shilton is 6’ and Maradona 5’5” so how the hell did Maradona get his hand (not even arm fully outstretched) to the ball before Shilton. Fault lies with keeper, hand of god or not imho. #worldcup
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Mark O’Brien @obrienpmark.bsky.social · 13/07/2026
Sam Neill was a brilliant actor and by all accounts a gentleman. His presence was a quality mark. So many great performances but he completely and utterly floored me in The Piano. Not many actors could have occupied that role with such truth, fire, control and uttter heartbreak. May he rest in power
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Mark O’Brien @obrienpmark.bsky.social · 10/07/2026
‘Tis very very warm in London
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Mark O’Brien @obrienpmark.bsky.social · 09/07/2026
I had to give up wheat a few years ago and am really really really missing Cannoli. Anyone know of any wheat free options available in cafés / bakeries in Ireland?
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