“MICK Dolan loves knocking down walls.”
Mick’s son Neil (Head Booker at Dolan’s) was speaking at a function last week to celebrate the achievements of Dolan’s Pub and its proprietors in the 25 years since opening the bar in 1994.
“And he likes building them up too,” added Neil.
And that is exactly what Mick and Valerie have done in Limerick, both symbolically and physically since the couple relocated here from Dublin.
Since 1994, they have knocked walls to turn a fruit warehouse behind the bar into one of Ireland’s finest venues. They converted the bedrooms upstairs into another more intimate performance area. They knocked more walls to transform the bar next door into The Kasbah Social Club.
All this work has created an internationally renowned venue on Limerick’s Dock Road.
It transformed a forlorn part of Limerick into a buzzing and much loved destination and put the city on the map for touring live artists from across the globe.
From Aslan, Snow Patrol and Sharon Shannon to Kasabian, Franz Ferdinand and the legendary Joe Jackson, they have all rocked The Warehouse.
Not forgetting the wealth of unforgettable nights that Seoda Shows bookings bring to the venue, showcasing the likes of Girl Band, Fontaines DC, whenyoung, Durand Jones and the Indications before these acts blew up and became everyone’s new favourite bands.
Legendary Limerick actor/ comedian Pat Shortt also spoke at the event.
He brought the house down roasting Mick Dolan, thanking him for his first free pint.
“It is my f*ckin first time on stage in Dolan’s. I had to wait 25 years for a free pint. I’m having a great night and I’m gonna get kicked out like I do most Saturdays.”
Pat remembered hearing about the pub just about to be opened on Limerick’s Dock Road back in 1994.
“Sure there is f*ck all down the Dock Road! He must have broke down just outside the door!” he joked.
The comedian finished up by telling the audience how Dolan’s is perceived today outside Limerick.
“It’s not just a venue, it’s a home to musicians. I mean that in every sense of the word, because you come in, you get fed, have the craic.
“Every musician around the country I have ever talked to… They have all wanted to come back because it’s a special venue and a special place, and they are special people.”
Mick Dolan accepted the accolades and mementos presented with a few words thanking his family, Valerie, Sarah and Neil, all the staff for their work in keeping the venue up and running, and expanding their bookings to shows at Limerick Milk Market, King John’s Castle and now Live at Docklands.
“The Council has been great and helpful in getting the Docklands going.
“We would like to develop that further and make Limerick a better place for everybody to be in.”
Mick further explained that ticket sales are, and will always be, the lifeblood of getting more live entertainment into Limerick in the future.
“Everybody that comes in and buys a ticket here, that is the support you need. That’s what Limerick needs. The more tickets people sell – the bands see what’s happening. And they want to come to Limerick.
“Thanks for your time and energy and for coming to all the gigs.
“Wholeheartedly from all the Dolan family, we thank you so much for all your support.”
See Limerick Post Newspaper for weekly updates on what gigs are happening in 2020.
