I have just been reading in an old volume, writes a correspondent, an account of the various performances given by Handel at the New Music Hall at Fishamble street during 1741 and 1742. Handel lived in Abbey street, and his house was open to everyone interested in music. The great occasion, of course, was the production of "The Messiah" on the 13th April, 1742, the singers being Mrs Cibber, Mrs Alvolio, and Mr Dubourg. Great crowds sought admission, and the theatre was filled to overflowing. The disappointment of those who were unable to secure admission was somewhat alleviated on the following nights by an ingenious idea which occurred to one of the organisers. He suggested that fashion might make a sacrifice for the sake of art, and appealed to the ladies to leave their hoops behind them for the duration of the performances. The request was graciously acceded to, and another hundred persons were enabled to hear the immortal music of Handel.
The Irish Times, February 22nd, 1930.