Dublin walk · Stop 4 of 7
The Shelbourne Hotel — St Stephen’s Green
Bram’s relationship with Henry Irving developed from his Dublin theatre reviewing into a friendship that changed his career. In Personal Reminiscences of Henry Irving, he recalls an invitation to the Shelbourne and the powerful effect of Irving’s recitation. In 1878 he moved to London to work for Irving. His memoir distinguishes an initial supper from a later Sunday dinner; these were not simply one meeting with an assumed date.
This is a good place to bring Bram’s own voice into the walk. Read the memoir passage before setting off and picture the change from a newspaper reviewer observing a visiting actor to the professional partnership that followed. Continue outside along St Stephen’s Green North before turning into Dawson Street; a meal or visit inside the hotel is optional.
The exterior can be viewed from St Stephen’s Green North. The hotel is a working business; ask staff before visiting public rooms.
