In 1923 the anti-Treaty IRA, in response to the ongoing execution of their prisoners, declared a ban on public entertainments including sports, theatre and cinema during a period of ‘national mourning’. This resulted in a concerted campaign which involved stopping sports and burning theatres and cinemas, only ended by the close of the Civil War.

Historian John Dorney is editor of the Irish Story website. He studied history and politics at UCD, completing his Masters thesis on Irish chieftain Florence McCarthy. He has written numerous articles and books including Peace After the Final Battle and The Civil War in Dublin.

Note: Limited spaces. To book, email rushlibrary@fingal.ie