More than 350 older people and community groups relived the golden showband era at the annual RCSI Dublin City Council Ballroom of Romance which took place on Thursday, 16 July 2026 at RCSI University of Medicine and Health Science’s St Stephen’s Green campus.

The event, now in its 11th year, saw local residents of the south-east inner city of Dublin, and active retirement and community groups, revel in an evening of nostalgic melodies, memories and dancing.

The highlight of the night was a stellar performance from the hugely popular 'Ronan Collins and Stories' showband featuring Ronan Collins, Karen Black and Eugene McCarthy, who had guests reminiscing on the golden era of the Irish showband phenomenon.

The evening opened with a performance by Forro Ireland.

This annual event is organised by RCSI Engage, in partnership with Dublin City Council South East Area Community Development team.

The Lord Mayor of Dublin, Daryl Barron said: “The Ballroom of Romance is a valued annual event that reflects the strong community spirit of Dublin's inner city. It is encouraging to see so many people coming together to enjoy an evening of entertainment and celebration. I would like to thank RCSI Engage, Dublin City Council staff and the community groups whose continued commitment has made this event such an enduring success.”

Maria Kelly, Head of RCSI Engage, said: “We were really proud to host the 11th annual Ballroom of Romance at RCSI, in partnership with Dublin City Council SE Area Team. This event is a wonderful opportunity for us to open the door of our campus to our local community. It also a wonderful reminder of how music connects us all – across ages, backgrounds and time – as well as the importance of gathering and friendship for our wellbeing as we get older.”

RCSI Engage is the university’s community, public and patient engagement strategy, focusing on partnerships between RCSI and local and national communities to enhance human health and education. It encompasses programmes including REACH RCSI programme, RCSI’s access, widening participation, community-engaged learning and research, and student volunteering.