The Dubliners Encore

Legendary Irish icon and world-renowned fiddle player John Sheahan announces the launch of a brand-new show: The Dubliners Encore.

The popularity of The Dubliners is unquestionable, their contribution to the world of folk music unparalleled. True originals, these bearded balladeers put Ireland on the world stage, releasing 30 original albums, selling 40 million records, and playing sold-out tours in a musical odyssey lasting 50 years. John and his late great bandmates Luke Kelly, Ronnie Drew, Barney McKenna and Ciarán Bourke, caught the imagination, playing Irish traditional music in a way never heard before, with an attitude never seen before. They revolutionised Irish music, taking it from the parlour and the pub to the world stage, leaving a legacy that helped transform Ireland and Irish music forever. 

A member of the band for 50 years, John has been working behind the scenes to create a show that authentically brings The Dubliners’ story to life on stage, personally overseeing every detail, every anecdote, and every musical note. After a two-year nationwide search, five incredible musicians were handpicked to recreate the spirit, energy, and musical talent of each original band member. Featuring their biggest hits and best-loved songs, The Dubliners Encore recaptures the band performing in their heyday, packing 50 years of songs, stories, and craic into one unforgettable night.  

The Dubliners Encore serves as a deeply personal tribute to John’s bandmates; an homage to his musical brothers that he shared the stage with for half a century. Speaking at the launch of The Dubliners Encore John said, ‘As the last original Dubliner standing, I wanted to create a show full of integrity inviting the audience to experience the magic of a Dubliners’ concert. This show is a tribute to my bandmates, to the music we created together and all the craic we had along the way.’ 

The Dubliners Encore is directed and produced by award-winning industry creatives Phil Coulter, Ceoladh Sheahan, and Maurice Sweeney. Phil produced six of The Dubliners’ original albums, as well as writing some of their biggest hits. He now returns to the fold as the show’s Musical Director. John has said of Phil’s involvement, ‘There is no-one more qualified to steer this one-of-a-kind Dubliners experience. Phil has been part of the Dubliners’ family for decades, and he brings his immense creativity, musicianship, passion, and experience to the role of Musical Director.’ 

The UK tour is promoted by ShowPlanr, part of the KMJ Entertainment / DEAG family. Chris Jenkins, Managing Director and Founder at ShowPlanr said: "We're delighted to be working with The Dubliners Encore team to deliver their UK tour. As the official Dubliners stage show, audiences can look forward to a truly authentic experience that captures the very essence of the world's greatest folk band. We can't wait to bring the show to UK theatres and concert halls from November and will be announcing further dates for 2025 and beyond in the coming weeks and months."

Fri 14 Mar 2025 – Pavilion Theatre, Bournemouth

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