Drogheda will celebrate the 400th anniversary of the birth of St. Oliver Plunkett with two special events for Culture Night on Friday, 19th September, 2025.

At 7:30 pm, a free performance of the celebrated play The True Story of the Horrid Popish Plot will take place at the Augustinian Church on Shop Street.

Members of local drama groups and musicians will give a special rehearsed reading of Desmond Forristal's work.

The play explores the complex story of St. Oliver Plunkett's trial and execution and the political circumstances surrounding them.

The production is co-produced and directed by actor Niall O’Brien and composer Michael Holohan, who will also arrange incidental music.

The location is particularly significant, as the site of the Augustinian Church was once home to St. Oliver Plunkett's first integrated school for Catholic and Protestant boys.

Extra Event: St. Oliver Plunkett and the European Connection

An additional free event will be held earlier in the day at the Tholsel, Drogheda Tourist Office on West Street, from 12 noon to 1 pm. The event will feature a talk on "St Oliver Plunkett and Ireland" by Tommy Burns, with a presentation on the saint's European connections to be confirmed.

These events are supported by Create Louth, Drogheda on the Boyne Tourism, and the Augustinian Community.