Cillian Murphy and Yvonne McGuinness purchase historic Phoenix cinema in Dingle

Cillian Murphy, acclaimed actor and recent Oscar winner, alongside his wife, artist Yvonne McGuinness, has purchased Dingle’s historic Phoenix Cinema. The acquisition marks a significant moment for the 105-year-old venue, which had closed its doors in 2021 after years of financial struggles. The couple plans to restore and reopen the cinema, ensuring it remains a cultural hub for the Dingle Peninsula and beyond.

Located a short stroll from Dingle Harbour, the Phoenix Cinema holds a unique place in Ireland's cultural fabric. It is the only cinema in a Gaeltacht region, making it vital to preserving the Irish language and culture. Murphy, who has fond childhood memories of the Phoenix, shared his connection:
"My Dad saw movies there as a young man, and we’ve watched films with our own kids. We recognize what the cinema means to Dingle.”

McGuinness added, "We want to open the doors again and expand the creative potential of this site, re-establishing its place in the cultural fabric of this unique town.”

A Storied Past

Built in 1919 by Jimmy and Johnny Houlihan, the Phoenix has a rich history. Devastating fires in 1921 and 1938 led to two reconstructions, the latter incorporating its iconic Art Deco façade and the mythical phoenix mosaic. The cinema evolved as a cultural hotspot, hosting everything from showband performances to film screenings. Notable moments include Rory Gallagher's 1964 performance and the premiere of Far & Away in 1992, attended by stars Tom Cruise and Nicole Kidman.

The late Michael ‘Francie’ O’Sullivan’s passion for film saw the cinema thrive again from 1980. However, rising costs and declining attendance forced its closure. A local campaign to preserve the venue as a cinema and cultural center kept hopes alive.

A Bright Future

The Phoenix Cinema will soon undergo extensive repair and refurbishment. In their announcement, Murphy and McGuinness included the Irish phrase "Bíonn rudaí maithe mall” (good things are slow), reflecting their commitment to careful restoration. Once reopened, the venue will feature a mix of blockbuster, art-house, and Irish-language programming.

For Dingle and cinema lovers worldwide, this marks the beginning of a new chapter for one of Ireland’s most treasured landmarks.