The Firkin Crane building was designed by Sir John Benson and opened in 1855. The building is a unique rotunda, which formed part of Cork's original Butter Exchange. This building forms part of an interesting group of related structures with the former butter market buildings in the Shandon area. The Firkin Crane was completely destroyed by fire in 1982. It reopened in 1992 and is now a bustling centre for all kinds of dance. With four dance studios and two performance spaces, it is a unique building for dance in Ireland. Large scale performances run throughout the year along with a range of regular classes and workshops across a spectrum of dance styles. The Firkin Crane is a permanent base for Cork City Ballet, Crux Dance Theatre and equally home for all of the professional and community dance artists in the area.