In Photos: Meteor Choice Music Prize 2011 Live Event (Part 1) @ The Olympia Theatre, Dublin (08.03.12)

Arguably the most prestigious night in the Irish musical calendar, the Choice Music Prize live event showcases the strength in depth of the current crop of domestic acts, as well as affording musos and hacks up and down the country the chance to indulge in some healthy speculation and debate as to which album should win, and why.

This year for the first time the prize enjoyed the support of a corporate sponsor, while the stately setting of The Olympia Theatre provided a suitably plush new backdrop for the annual nail-biting and mudslinging to unfold last Thursday evening. The overall standard of competition was as high as in any previous year, with all ten shortlisted acts – each of whom also performed on the night – in with a realistic chance of winning right up until that all-important envelope was opened.

Below you'll find part one of our photographic roundup from Dame St., featuring shots of tieranniesaur, We Cut Corners, The Japanese Popstars, Cashier No.9, Pugwash and Patrick Kelleher and His Cold Dead Hands in action. Click on any of the thumbnail images to load a slideshow of Mark Earley's snaps, and then head here to view part two of our live gallery.