The Whale Gets Its Hump Back

The changing of the guard…

atest press release from The Whale, issued on Friday, May 2nd 2025…

The Whale Theatre is delighted to announce that a newly formed not-for-profit group, The Whale Theatre Company CLG, will assume operations of the beloved Greystones venue this autumn, ushering in a new era of community-led cultural programming.

This exciting transition follows a months-long open call and rigorous selection process led by owner and founder, Ross McParland. After receiving eight proposals, a panel of expert advisors unanimously selected the proposal submitted by the local Whale Working Group (WWG) – a collective of artists, creatives and community members – who will form the Whale Theatre Company CLG.

The transition will take place over the summer months, with the theatre expected to re-open in the autumn.

Speaking on the transition, Ross McParland said: “I am just thrilled to know that the Whale Theatre will continue to be a vital community and cultural asset for the town, and I know that it will be in very good hands. It has been a long but thoroughly exciting process, and I am delighted with this hugely positive outcome. I want to thank all my own team for their years of dedication, and I wish the new Whale Theatre Company CLG all the very best for the next few years as they put their own stamp on this very special theatre.”

The Whale Working Group was established in response to McParland’s November 2024 callout for a new operator. The group quickly gained strong community backing, ultimately submitting a robust and forward-looking proposal for the theatre’s future. Plans are already underway for the Whale Theatre Company CLG to register as a charity.

Aideen Walton, spokesperson for the Whale Working Group, said: “As soon as we saw the open call from the Whale Theatre, we knew we had to act. So many of us have worked, created, or performed there over the years—and the idea of losing it as a local asset was unthinkable. It’s an enormous privilege to be entrusted with this responsibility, and we’re fully committed to preserving and growing the legacy
of the Whale for years to come.”

The Whale Theatre has hosted over 1,200 events and welcomed more than 100,000 visitors since its opening in 2017. The final event under current management is a sold-out performance from the Hothouse Flowers on Saturday 17th May.

For anyone wishing to contact the new Whale Theatre Company CLG, enquiries may be directed on email here.