80's Icons at Dunamaise Arts Centre

80’s Icons brings a run of 1980s pop hits to Dunamaise Arts Centre on Friday, 9 October 2026, a tribute production covering acts including Duran Duran, Spandau Ballet, Level 42, Nik Kershaw, Go West, Tears for Fears, Human League, Paul Young, ABC, Ultravox and Phil Collins. Rather than focusing on a single band, the show is built as a decade-spanning setlist, moving performer to performer across the evening. It is one of several themed tribute nights the Dunamaise has programmed for the autumn season.

What to expect

Expect a full band and vocal line-up working through the biggest singles of each act named, with costume and styling nods to the decade rather than a strict recreation of any one artist. The show leans on the era’s synth-pop and new-wave sound, with the venue’s own listing noting the styling includes big hair and shoulder pads as part of the presentation. It is a standing-friendly setlist even in the Dunamaise’s seated format, built for singalong choruses rather than quiet listening. The venue has flagged that the show uses flashing lights, which is worth knowing if that affects you or anyone you are bringing.

Getting there

Dunamaise Arts Centre is on Church Street in Portlaoise town centre, a short walk from Portlaoise train station on the Dublin to Cork and Limerick line, and close to the M7/N8 junction for anyone driving in.

While you’re in Portlaoise

Portlaoise is the county town of Laois, home to the courthouse, main shops and the M7/N8 motorway crossroads, with plenty of pubs around Church Street to start or finish the night. The Rock of Dunamase, a 13th-century hilltop ruin, is a short drive out of town for anyone arriving early. There is more to see in Portlaoise and across Co. Laois.

Good to know

• Date: Friday, 9 October 2026
• Time: 8:00pm
• Venue: Dunamaise Arts Centre, Church Street, Portlaoise
• Price: €32.50
• Booking: dunamaise.ie or 057 8663355
• Accessibility: the venue states this show uses flashing lights