Construction of the Irish Arts Centre in Hell's Kitchen, New York City, is set to progress following the announcement of €3m in Irish government funding.

The allocation comprises €2.5m from the Department of Culture, Communications and Sport and €500,000 from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. The funds will support the completion of the centre's redevelopment, including the creation of a second, intimate venue within the original 51st Street site.

The two-phase redevelopment project has already delivered a large theatre, library, studio, and function spaces. Phase two will focus on refurbishing the original facility to provide a flexible space for emerging and early-career Irish artists. The overall capital budget for both phases is $97.7m (€83.6m), with previous Irish government contributions of $15m, New York City support of $20.35m, and New York State providing $5.39m. Private donations have contributed more than $57m since 2010.

-- Advertisement --

The completed centre will provide a modern, 21st-century facility capable of hosting a broad range of performances and exhibitions, securing a permanent platform for Irish creative talent in one of the world’s leading cultural capitals.

Aidan Connolly, Executive Director of the Irish Arts Centre, described the project as delivering "a second, intimate, flexible space for Irish artists across a range of backgrounds, disciplines and practices – both established and emerging."

Minister Patrick O'Donovan noted that the IAC serves as a strategic hub for Irish artists in North America, while Tánaiste Simon Harris highlighted the collaboration between Ireland, New York City, and New York State in bringing the project to completion.