The Helix, Dublin
 The Helix in June 2005 | |
 | |
| Full name | Helix Centre for the Performing Arts |
|---|---|
| Former names | North Dublin Arts Centre (planning/construction) |
| Address | Collins Avenue Extension Dublin D9 D09 FW22 Ireland |
| Location | Glasnevin |
| Coordinates | 53°23′11″N 6°15′34″W / 53.38639°N 6.25944°W |
| Owner | Dublin City Council |
| Operator | UAC Management |
| Capacity | 1,300 (Mahony Hall) 433 (Helix Theatre) |
| Construction | |
| Broke ground | August 2000 |
| Opened | 21 October 2002 |
| Construction cost | €36.5 million |
| Architect | Wejchert Architects |
| Project manager | Healy Kelly & Partners |
| General contractor | Bennett Construction |
| Website | |
| Venue Website | |
The Helix is a multi-purpose venue located on the Dublin City University campus in Dublin. It was officially opened by then President of Ireland, Mary McAleese on the 21 October 2002. The Helix consists of a Concert Hall, Theatre, Studio Theatre, Exhibition Area, Artists in Residence Studios and full support spaces.
Design and features
Originally conceived as an Aula Maxima and built at a cost of €56.5 million, The Helix was designed by the late Polish-born architect Andrzei Wejchert. It is a three level stunning building with elevations of contrasting glass and granite, with an open void through which light spills from the roof. The 12,000 square metres of the building are organised by a breathtaking foyer, magnificent inclined columns and helix-shaped stairway, as well as to the Café, Box Office, Sweet Shop, toilets and other amenities.
It was after the impressive helical-shaped staircase that The Helix was given its name. It is an imposing feature of the venue that dominates its entrance and is located at the centre of the building, leading patrons to the different floors of the building.
Performances and events
The Helix has been host to world-class performances ranging from the Russian State Philharmonic Orchestra, The St. Petersburg Ballet, International Theatre and World Singers to hit west End Shows. The Helix has been host to many orchestras from around the world, including opera singers such as Dame Kiri Te Kanawa, Lesley Garrett and Bryn Terfel. Even world-renowned group Celtic Thunder has played at the theater. Rock musicians Van Morrison and Lou Reed have also played the venue.
TV programmes
Many TV programmes have been broadcast from or recorded in The Helix.
| Programme | Channel | Years |
|---|---|---|
| You're a Star | RTÉ One | 2002–2008 |
| The Dunphy Show | TV3 | 2003 |
| The Panel | Network 2 | 2003 |
| Rip-Off Republic | RTÉ One | 2005 |
| Fame: The Musical | RTÉ One | 2010 |
| Take Me Out | TV3 | 2010–2013 |
| Family Fortunes | TV3 | 2012–2014 |
| The Voice of Ireland | RTÉ One | 2012–2016 |
Awards
- Irish Concrete Society Award – Building Category
- Irish Joinery Award – Joinery of the Mahony Hall – 1st Prize
- Plan Opus Building Awards Winner (2003)
- Shorlisted for the Best Purpose-built Venue (2014)