The news has been warmly welcomed at the National Theatre of Ireland, as final preparations are made for the spectacular production of a remarkable play, which follows three generations of residents in one Dublin 1 house across a century of social upheaval.

Commissioned by the Abbey Theatre, Dublin Gothic is full of wit and warmth, celebrating the glory and the grime of Dublin. More than one hundred unforgettable characters dance through time as they make their way through life in the 20th century, sharing their joys, struggles and secrets. A wild, exuberant ride through time, the play illuminates the competing histories found within the capital while foregrounding the endearing and dastardly, extraordinarily ordinary Dubliners who call it home.

Commenting on the news, playwright Barbara Bergin said: “I am so humbled to be nominated for the Susan Smith Blackburn Prize and to receive this news as the play comes alive on Ireland’s national stage is a moment I couldn’t have imagined. Dublin Gothic is set in the heart of Dublin City – where I am from, and to find myself nominated among such exalted international artists is a thrill and an honour. Proof, I hope, that all our stories speak to each other.”

Literary and New Work Director at the Abbey Theatre, Ruth McGowan said: “A play like Dublin Gothic doesn’t cross your desk very often. Intricate and bold, it’s an epic story told across a century of action on the streets surrounding us here at the Abbey Theatre. Teeming with life and wit, the scores of indelible characters spring directly off its pages and into your heart. We’re so proud have commissioned this play, and I am thrilled that this recognition from the Susan Smith Blackburn Prize will introduce further readers to Barabara Bergin’s exuberant imagination and meticulous craft.”

Founded in 1978, the Susan Smith Blackburn Prize is one of the world’s most prestigious awards in playwrighting. It honours women+ writers across the world who have written English-language plays. The last Abbey nominee who went on to the win the prize was Marina Carr in 1997 for her play, Portia Coughlan. Barbara Bergin’s nomination this year follows that of Carys D. Coburn who was nominated for the 2025 award with BÁN, which had its world premiere on the Peacock Stage of the Abbey Theatre in October as part of Dublin Theatre Festival.

The winner will be announced at a ceremony at the Royal Court on 26th February.