Ireland’s National Theatre, The Abbey, has played a central cultural role in the country for over 100 years. Opened in 1904, 20 years before Independence, it contributed to the Nationalist movement and the Celtic Revival, but later sparked riots when it challenged it. Today, the theatre continues that tradition, with performances of well-known works by Irish writers, such as JM Synge and Sean O’Casey, and new plays by established contemporary writers. The Peacock Theatre, also here, is a small venue devoted to experimental and contemporary drama.