Ben Mc Cabe is a PhD student at Dundalk Institute of Technology, examining sustainability and environmentally aware practices in the arts with a focus on two regional theatres. His research is funded under the CREATE-DkIT programme. Ben trained in architecture and later in sustainable urban environments and climate change. Ben also practices as a visual artist.

CREATE-DkIT is co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union through the ERDF Southern, Eastern & Midland Regional Programme 2021-27.

An Táin Arts Centre occupies a prominent cultural position in Dundalk, formerly a British Army garrison town. The current theatre building was originally designed as an Italianate palazzo-style corn exchange in the decade after the Great Famine, a place to determine the price of food crops. Subsequently reconceived as the Town Hall it became the seat of the Urban District Council, a system of British municipal administration, and a town theatre. Proximity to the border, as well as political and social changes over the past century have required careful consideration in terms of programming. The Town Hall was redeveloped into a purpose-built theatre, artist studios and gallery. It was renamed An Táin Arts Centre; as an homage to pre- colonisation local Gaelic mythology.

Today, environmental awareness and sustainability have emerged as factors that require consideration following the enactment of the Paris Agreement in 2016. Under the agreement, Ireland must reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 40% on 1990 levels by 2030. As theatres and cultural spaces start to address their climate change responsibilities, there are systemic challenges to overcome. From stage design, production, performance and post-production; carbon literacy and expanded awareness are required from both creators, performers and attendees. Through a reflection on recent programming and current activities in An Táin Arts Centre, this paper will demonstrate how eco-critical thinking is informing arts practice and engaging with the challenges of climate change. Sustainability considerations are evidence of innovative creative practice in Dundalk, where theatre has gone through many iterations on the edge of empire.