Shane Fitzsimons Riverside Theatre Officially Opens at Kinsale Community School
Celebrated during the triumphant closing night of school musical ‘Oliver with a Twist’
Saturday night marked a landmark occasion at Kinsale Community School as the newly built Shane Fitzsimons Riverside Theatre was officially opened, coinciding with the final outstanding performance of the 2025 school musical, Oliver with a Twist, scripted, produced and directed by Mr. Tony Cierans which was part of the wonderful TY experience coordinated by Ms. Niamh Hay. The ribbon-cutting ceremony was performed by Shane’s wife, Deirdre Fitzsimons, and his mother, Ann Fitzsimons, in front of an audience of invited guests, staff, students, and the wider school community. The theatre, named in memory of Shane Fitzsimons, a native of Kinsale and former Chief Financial Officer of AIG, stands as a powerful tribute to Shane’s legacy and to the Fitzsimons family’s enduring support for the arts. Shane’s father, Garry Fitzsimons, had long dreamt of a dedicated performance space in Kinsale—a dream that has now been realised.
The event also celebrated the tremendous success of Oliver with a Twist, which played to sold-out audiences over seven nights, welcoming more than 2,500 attendees. The production showcased the extraordinary talents and teamwork of Kinsale Community School students and staff. Principal Fergal McCarthy extended heartfelt thanks to the entire school community: “I want to sincerely thank every member of staff for your incredible contribution to this year’s musical. It was a resounding success—thanks to your creativity, dedication, and unwavering support.”
The Shane Fitzsimons Riverside Theatre will now serve as a cultural hub for Kinsale, hosting live performances and enriching the school curriculum through programmes like the new Leaving Certificate in Film and Drama. With a 360-seat capacity, it is set to benefit both students and the wider community for years to come.
About Shane Fitzsimons and AIG’s Support
The theatre was made possible through the support of AIG, led by Chairman and CEO Peter Zaffino, who worked closely with the Fitzsimons family to honour Shane’s memory in a meaningful way. Shane’s wife Deirdre proposed the theatre as a fitting tribute—bringing to life Garry Fitzsimons' long-standing vision.
The Shane Fitzsimons Riverside Theatre stands as a powerful legacy, reflecting the values of education, community, and creativity that defined Shane’s life. It is a space where future generations will gather, perform, and be inspired.
