Irish nights are fun. This one is up close. You get live Irish music and step dancing in the Belvedere Bar, plus a three-course Irish dinner in an easy-to-follow schedule. The show was created and choreographed by Jim Murrihy (Damhsa), and the performers have appeared in major productions like Riverdance and Lord of the Dance.

I especially like the format: every table has a good view of the raised stage, and the night is built for audience participation (think clapping, singing, and even a chance to learn a simple step). I also like the small-group feel, since the event caps at 10 travelers, so it doesn’t feel like you’re watching through a sea of shoulders.

One thing to consider: dinner runs first, and some people find the pacing less exciting until the show begins. If you want nonstop performance time, plan for a slower start before dancing takes over.

Key takeaways before you go

• Belvedere Bar stage view: every table is set up for a clear look at the raised performance area
• Jim Murrihy connection: choreographed by Jim Murrihy of Damhsa, with an original score
• Real audience participation: you may be invited on stage to try a few Irish dance steps
• Small group max: capped at 10 travelers for a more personal atmosphere
• 3-course dinner included: adult dinners are three courses; kids get two courses
• Drinks cost extra: tea/coffee and beverages aren’t included in the ticket price

Belvedere Bar: An up-close Irish-night setting in Dublin

This is the kind of Dublin evening that feels like you’re stepping into a local celebration, not queueing for a big theater production. The show happens in the Belvedere Bar at the Belvedere Hotel on Great Denmark Street, and the layout is designed so you can see the stage without doing the whole twist-and-stare routine.

The room is intimate. That matters. Irish step dancing works best when you can see footwork and timing clearly, and an up-close setting helps you catch the small details: the rhythm, the clean line of movements, and the energy of performers who are right there in front of you.

And yes, the crowd gets pulled in. People aren’t just watching politely from a distance. This format encourages participation through clapping, singing-along moments, and interactive hosting.

What you really get for $56.84: dinner plus a full Irish show

On paper, the price looks like you’re paying for two things: a live show and a meal. In practice, the value depends on what you’d otherwise do with an evening in Dublin.

Here’s the deal: the ticket includes a traditional Irish night show with live music, singing, and Irish dancing, plus a three-course dinner for adults. For children, the ticket includes two courses (and drinks still aren’t included in the ticket price). Tea or coffee is also listed as not included, so you’ll want to plan for that if you like a post-meal cuppa.

If you’re comparing it to eating out and booking a separate performance, this package is often the easy choice. You get a structured night with clear start times, one ticket to manage, and a meal that’s part of the program flow.

The main tradeoff is what people sometimes call the pacing: dinner happens first, then the show starts. That’s not wrong—just different from a plan where the stage takes over immediately. If you’re hungry, it’s a good setup. If you’re here for nonstop performance, you’ll have to wait until 8:00 PM for the dancing to kick fully into gear.

Jim Murrihy and the cast: why the dancing feels so tight

The show isn’t random dancing for tourists. It’s an actual production created and choreographed by Jim Murrihy, connected with Damhsa. That matters because choreography and timing are what separate Irish step dancing as an art form from just watching someone “dance fast.”

The performers also come with serious credentials. The cast members have performed both nationally and internationally in major shows such as Riverdance, Feet of Flames, and Lord of the Dance. When you watch professional dancers in a small room, you notice how clean and consistent their rhythm is—especially during synchronised sections where multiple dancers move like one unit.

The show also includes an original score, plus live music and singing. That combination helps the night move between styles: you’ll get older-style solo step dancing moments, then the familiar jigs and reels that people recognize right away.

The 6:30 to 9:45 plan: dinner first, show second

Let’s map the evening so you can decide if it fits your schedule.

• Doors open: 6:30 PM
• Dinner service: starts at 6:45 PM
• Show begins: 8:00 PM
• Show ends: by 9:45 PM
• Total time: about 3 hours

So you’re looking at about an hour-plus of dining before the main show takes over.

Why do it this way? It helps keep the performance space clear. The dinner is timed so staff aren’t constantly moving around the room during dancing, which is better for both the show and your viewing.

The main drawback is psychological. If you came hoping the stage would start right away, the first part can feel long. A couple of factors can add to that: the dinner portion can run at a steady tempo, and during the earlier phase there may be brief non-live elements in the room (some guests report video-style segments). Once the dancing starts at 8:00, most people feel like the evening finds its stride again.

My advice: treat the first hour like part of the show. Use it to settle in, eat, and get ready to join the clapping and singing when the performers cue the crowd.

Three courses of Irish comfort food (and what costs extra)

Food here is built as an Irish comfort-food meal, with a choice of dishes described as home-cooked Irish options. Adults get three courses. Kids get two courses.

A key detail: drinks aren’t included. Beverages are available to purchase throughout the event. Tea and coffee are also listed as not included in the ticket price.

This matters more than it seems. If you’re budgeting, remember that a dinner-and-show ticket price can feel like a bargain until you add drinks. One guest even mentioned extra charges for items like bottled water, which is exactly the sort of “small surprise” you can avoid by deciding in advance whether you’ll buy drinks there.

Practical food tip: come hungry. More than one reviewer-style comment in the data hints that dinner portions can take up a decent chunk of the evening, and you don’t want to arrive already full from an earlier pint or snack.

Audience participation without stage-fright: how it works

This is one of the most praised parts of the experience. The show includes multiple chances for interaction—clapping, singing-along moments, and a volunteer segment where you might be invited on stage to learn a simple Irish dance step.

If you’re traveling with kids, this is huge. A lot of families come for the same reason: the show gives children a role in what’s happening, not just a seat with a soundtrack.

If you’re an adult who would rather keep your feet on the floor, you still won’t feel like you’re stuck being a passive viewer. Even when you’re not on stage, the hosts guide the crowd, and the music cues make it easy to join in.

If you do get invited up, don’t overthink it. The goal is participation, not perfection. The professional dancers are there to demonstrate and help. Think of it as a fun “try it once” moment rather than an exam.

Practical logistics in Dublin: where to go and how to plan

The address is:

Belvedere Hotel Dublin, Great Denmark Street, Dublin 1 (D01 W1C0)

A few logistics points that help you have a smoother night:

• No pickup service. You’ll need to handle your own travel to the venue.
• Near public transportation. That’s good news if you’re hopping around Dublin on foot and public transit.
• Arrive on time: doors open 6:30 PM and dinner starts 6:45 PM. Plan to be there before that so you can check in and get settled.
• No parking facilities on the premises. If you’re driving, you’ll need a separate parking plan.
• Mobile ticket. Bring your confirmation on your phone.

Also, the group size is capped at 10 travelers, which typically means less shuffling and more of a “you’re in the room with them” feeling.

Who should book this Irish Night (and who might want a different option)

This is a great fit if you want a fun, culturally focused Dublin evening without needing a deep knowledge of Irish dance first.

Best matches

• Families with kids who enjoy music and want an interactive moment
• Small groups who like shared experiences more than quiet museum-style visits
• People who want authentic-feeling Irish entertainment in an intimate venue
• Travelers who like the idea of a structured night with dinner included

Maybe skip or adjust expectations if

• You hate waiting around before the main show starts
• You want a longer show with less dining time
• You’re very strict about keeping the total cost down (because drinks are extra)

The show itself is the main event, and it’s designed to get you involved. The dinner is supportive to the evening, but it’s also the reason the show doesn’t start at 7:00 PM.

Should you book Belvedere Irish Nights, Dance and Traditional 3-course dinner?

I’d book it if you want a compact, high-energy Dublin night where you can actually participate in Irish step dancing culture. The combination of live music, singing, professional dancers, and an included 3-course meal is strong value—especially for families or anyone who likes the “crowd becomes part of the show” style.

I would hesitate only if you strongly prefer performance-first pacing, because the night runs dinner first, show at 8:00 PM. Budget for drinks if you drink more than just water. And give yourself time to arrive early, so you’re seated and relaxed before dinner service begins.

If your goal is an authentic-feeling Irish night with real performers in a small room, this is one of the best ways to spend an evening in Dublin without overcomplicating your day.

FAQ

What time does dinner start?

Dinner service starts at 6:45 PM, with doors opening at 6:30 PM.

When does the show start and end?

The show starts at 8:00 PM and finishes by 9:45 PM.

Is the meal included with the ticket?

Yes. Adults get a 3-course dinner included. Children get a 2-course dinner included.

Are drinks included?

No. Beverages are not included in the ticket price and can be purchased during the event. Tea or coffee is also listed as not included.

Is there an opportunity to participate in the show?

Yes. There are many opportunities for audience participation, including being invited on stage to learn a simple Irish dance step.

How many people are in the group?

The experience has a maximum of 10 travelers, which keeps the setting feeling intimate.

Is transportation or pickup included?

No. You’ll need to arrange your own travel plan. No pickup service is provided.

Where is the venue located?

It’s at Belvedere Hotel Dublin, Great Denmark Street, Dublin 1 (D01 W1C0).

Is there parking at the venue?

No. There are no parking facilities on the premises.

Is the show suitable for kids?

Yes, and children must be accompanied by an adult. The ticket includes a 2-course dinner for children.

What happens if weather is poor?

The experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.