2 Best Performing Arts in Portlaoise, The Midlands

Dunamaise Arts Centre

This lively arts center has a 240-seat theater, an art gallery, and a friendly coffeehouse (closed Sunday). You may catch a professional production on tour or a local amateur show. The exhibition space displays the work of contemporary Irish artists. It's built into the back of the 18th-century stone courthouse on Church Street in a space that used to be the town jail. Caffe Latte serves sandwiches and salads at lunch, and afternoon tea.

Electric Picnic

In the first weekend of September the historic grounds of Stradbally Hall come alive with a music and arts festival at one of Ireland's biggest outdoor gigs. Running since 2004, the festival attracts big-name performers and up to 50,000 picnickers who come not only for the music but also comedy, theater, and food. Book tickets early if you wish to attend.