Murphy & McGuinness Buy Iconic Kerry Cinema: A New Era for Local Entertainment

Cillian Murphy and Yvonne McGuinness Buy the Phoenix Cinema

Actor Cillian Murphy and artist Yvonne McGuinness have purchased the Phoenix Cinema in Daingean Uí Chúis, County Kerry. This historic cinema, once family-run, closed during the Covid-19 lockdown and was later put up for sale.

Local speculation about their interest in the cinema has now been confirmed. The couple plans to refurbish and reopen it, while also enhancing the site’s creative potential. They will highlight the cinema’s unique status as Ireland‘s only cinema in a Gaeltacht area through thoughtful programming.

The purchase has been welcomed by the local community, as the Phoenix has been a cornerstone of social life in Daingean Uí Chúis for over a century. Residents had feared that the cinema might fall into the hands of property developers. A campaign to “save the Phoenix” was already underway.

Cillian Murphy is a familiar face in the Gaeltacht. He spends much of his time in the area, where his family has deep roots. In a statement, he expressed his long-standing connection to the Phoenix Cinema: “I’ve been going to see films at The Phoenix since I was a young boy on summer holidays.” He added that his family has made many memories there.

The Phoenix Cinema first opened its doors in 1919. It faced destruction from fires in 1921 and 1938. The Houlihan family rebuilt it each time, which inspired its name. Over the years, it became a hub for drama, concerts, and films.

Under the Moore family’s ownership, the cinema hosted many events during the 1950s and 1960s, including performances by Rory Gallagher and Dana. The cinema also garnered attention for showing ‘Ryan’s Daughter’ in 1972, a film featuring scenes filmed near the Dingle peninsula.

The O’Sullivan family owned the Phoenix since 1978. They created a warm environment, offering complimentary tea and biscuits during the Tuesday night movie club. However, the Covid-19 pandemic forced a long closure. Eventually, rising costs and declining attendance led the O’Sullivans to sell the cinema.

The Phoenix remains the only cinema on the Dingle peninsula, with the nearest alternative over 30 kilometers away in Tralee. The couple plans to start renovations next year.