In 1985, two Dublin-born brothers, Vincent and Chris O’Neill, internationally acclaimed actors and former members of Ireland’s celebrated Abbey Theatre, found themselves in Buffalo, performing Samuel Beckett’s Waiting for Godot in the dining room of a local hotel. They were enthusiastically embraced by Western New York audiences and critics, and together with fellow Dubliners Josephine Hogan and the late Dr. James Warde, formed the Irish Classical Theatre Company. Performing on various rented stages until a permanent home was established at the Calumet Arts Café, ICTC became the fastest growing theatre in the region and led to the building of its new home, The Andrews Theatre, which opened its doors in January of 1999. Now entering its 32nd Anniversary Season, ICTC continues to celebrate its strong Irish roots through its choice of repertoire, and by bringing special guest directors, playwrights and actors to the Niagara Frontier to work and to be honored.

ICTC and the Community

ICTC works hard to make theatre accessible to underserved/economically disadvantaged segments of the community through our Community Matinee Program/Classics for Kids. A few organizations ICTC has supported with artistic collaborations: