Rock Rising - The Supreme Classic Rock Show at VISUAL Carlow

Rock Rising bills itself as a full-throttle celebration of classic rock rather than a single-artist tribute, working through the catalogues of Pink Floyd, AC/DC, Queen, Journey, Toto and Thin Lizzy in one show. The band tours under the Hypertension Music label and has built a track record of sold-out dates across Ireland, the UK and Germany.

What to Expect

Expect a production-heavy set rather than a stripped-back pub gig: the show leans on “electrifying stage presence” and a big production build, aiming to recreate the scale of an arena rock show inside the George Bernard Shaw Theatre. The setlist draws from across six decades-defining acts rather than sticking to one band’s back catalogue, so the pacing shifts between anthemic singalongs and more technical guitar-driven passages through the night. It’s a night aimed at rock fans who want the greatest hits rather than a deep-cuts show.

Good to Know

• Saturday 3 October 2026, 8pm.
• Tickets €30 including booking fee, 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.