Irish theatre is a global phenomenon and has always been so: it has never been confined to the island of Ireland. In the 18th century. actors moved freely between England and Ireland, while in the 19th century, playwrights such as Dion Boucicault carried an image of Ireland to audiences in New York, Sydney and Toronto. The reputation of the early Abbey was due to part to tours of England and the United States, while the Gate and, more recently, companies such as Field Day and Druid have continued to carry Irish theatre around the world. Within Ireland also, theatre has not been solely centred on Dublin, as is sometimes represented. This collection - the first in the Irish Theatrical Diaspora Series - brings together the work of leading scholars to explore the place of touring in Irish theatre both inside and outside the country. It opens new perspectives for anyone interested in the place of Irish theatre in the world today.