Dire Straits - John Illsley at VISUAL Carlow

John Illsley is not a tribute act - he is the founding bass player of Dire Straits, present from the band’s very first rehearsal and playing on every one of their studio albums. This VISUAL Carlow date puts one of the band’s original members on stage backed by a full band, working through a catalogue that sold over 120 million records worldwide.

What to Expect

Expect the songs that built Dire Straits’ reputation: “Sultans of Swing,” “Money for Nothing,” “Brothers in Arms” and more, delivered by someone who played on the original recordings rather than a note-for-note copy act. Illsley has spent recent years touring smaller venues with his own band, framing the shows as much around the stories behind the songs and the band’s history as the performance itself. At €41.50 it’s the most expensive ticket in VISUAL’s autumn music programme, reflecting the difference between a genuine original member and a tribute production.

Good to Know

• Wednesday 21 October 2026, 8pm.
• Tickets €41.50, online, in person or by phone through the box office (059 917 2400).
• The George Bernard Shaw Theatre, VISUAL Carlow, Old Dublin Road, Carlow Town.
• Tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable; groups of more than 8 or wheelchair users should contact the box office directly.

Getting There

VISUAL is on the Old Dublin Road on the northern edge of Carlow Town, with its own car park. It’s roughly a 20-minute walk from Carlow railway station on the Dublin Heuston to Waterford line, or a short taxi ride.

About the Venue

VISUAL opened in 2009 on land donated by Carlow College, built after an international design competition won by British architect Terry Pawson. The complex pairs the 330-seat George Bernard Shaw Theatre with gallery space that stages around 15 exhibitions a year, and admission to the galleries is free, Tuesday to Saturday 11am to 5:30pm and Sunday 2pm to 5pm. It’s worth building in time before or after a show to see what’s currently on display.