A HOUSE OF PLAY | Exhibition

An Exhibition and Programme of Events to Celebrate a Landmark Anniversary.

To celebrate our 75th anniversary, the Lyric presents this new exhibition that showcases our rich history. A history which includes an art gallery (The New Gallery, 1963–1969), a literary magazine Threshold (1957–1990), a dance centre, a drama school, Belfast’s first music academy, and of course, a theatre.

A House of Play spotlights co-founder Mary O’Malley alongside the many creatives who built the Lyric from its beginnings in 1951, including Helen Lewis, Seamus Heaney, Brian Friel, John Hewitt and many more.

Curated by Kim Mawhinney, the exhibition features artworks by Jack B. Yeats, Alice Berger Hammerschlag, Basil Blackshaw and others associated with The New Gallery. Extending the legacy into the present, this exhibition houses two new pieces from two extraordinary artists, one by Colin Davidson and one by Neil Shawcross. It also features rare editions of Threshold, free archival documentary screenings and a recreation of the original theatre set up from the O'Malley's home in the 1950s.

To access the exhibition please book your free pass via the book now button. Pass includes free entry to the exhibitions and screenings. Please collect your ticket and free exhibition brochure on arrival from Box Office.

Screenings Schedule:

Friday 30th January 2026 | 10:30 | Neil Martin: Bóthar an Cheoil

The work of Belfast composer Neil Martin has been performed across the globe, from Ground Zero to Mostar Bridge, from the Royal Albert Hall to the International Space Station. Producer, arranger and musician Neil is an artist who thrives on collaboration with performers, writers and thinkers from all walks of life. This feature documentary follows Neil through celebration, grief and new ambitions to ask whether the work of being an artist ever feels finished.

Saturday 31st January 2026 | 10:30 | Michael Longley: Where Poems Come From

An intimate film profile of Belfast poet Michael Longley, offering insights into his work, friendships, working process, the places that have inspired him and his relationship with his wife Edna.

Sunday 1st February 2026 | 10:30 | Gerald Dawe: Out of the Ordinary

An intimate profile of poet Gerald Dawe, who was born in Belfast in 1952. In his writing, Gerald has explored the meeting ground between his own personal experience and the political and cultural realities.

Tuesday 3rd February 2026 | 10:30 | I Will Yes: Molly’s Soliloquy (2hr 7 mins run time)

A site-specific reading of James Joyce's Ulysses Episode 18 (Molly's Soliloquy) by 22 women in a Belfast bedroom to celebrate the Ulysses Centenary, February 2 2022. Commissioned by the Belfast Linen Hall Library as part of its inaugural Enlightenment Festival.

Focusing on Molly Bloom's inner thoughts as she drifts to sleep, culminating in her famous, affirmative "yes I said yes I will Yes," the soliloquy reflects themes of love, sex, and life through a woman's liberated consciousness. It highlights the revolutionary, stream-of-consciousness style and its lasting impact.

Directed by Carol Moore. Filmed by Chris Thompson. Original idea Seán Doran and Liam Browne (DoranBrowne).

Wednesday 4th February 2026 | 10:30 | Neil Martin: Bóthar an Cheoil

The work of Belfast composer Neil Martin has been performed across the globe, from Ground Zero to Mostar Bridge, from the Royal Albert Hall to the International Space Station. Producer, arranger and musician Neil is an artist who thrives on collaboration with performers, writers and thinkers from all walks of life. This feature documentary follows Neil through celebration, grief and new ambitions to ask whether the work of being an artist ever feels finished.

Friday 6th February 2026 | 10:30 | Michael Longley: Where Poems Come From

An intimate film profile of Belfast poet Michael Longley, offering insights into his work, friendships, working process, the places that have inspired him and his relationship with his wife Edna.

Saturday 7th February 2026 | 10:30 | Gerald Dawe: Out of the Ordinary

A programme of events will mark the opening week, showcasing music, poetry readings, documentary screenings and live performances, these events can be booked through our website here.