Latest news with #WexfordArtsCentre
Irish Independent
25-06-2025
- Business
- Irish Independent
Brendan Howlin takes over as new Chair of Wexford Arts Centre board
The former Minister for Public Expenditure replaces the outgoing Chair Rosemary Hartigan who retires after nine years at the helm. In an official statement, Wexford Arts Centre officially welcomed Mr Howlin as 'a lifelong supporter of the arts'. "His deep appreciation for culture and belief in the transformative power of the arts will be a guiding force as Wexford Arts Centre enters its next chapter,' it read. 'With his wealth of experience in governance and public policy, and his strong local ties, Brendan's leadership will support the Centre's ongoing mission - Arts for All, Arts for Life - and to inspire creativity, promote participation, and nurture artistic excellence throughout Wexford and the wider Southeast region." The management of Wexford Arts Centre was fulsome in its praise of the outgoing Chair. "Throughout her tenure, Rosemary has been a supportive presence—working collaboratively with Elizabeth Whyte, Executive Director, staff, fellow board members, artists, and community stakeholders to help guide the centre through an exciting and transformative decade including the celebration of Wexford Arts Centre's 50th anniversary as the oldest regional arts centre in Ireland,' the statement read. 'Her leadership coincided with a period of significant growth, including the construction and completion of the new extension including enhanced access, expansion of visual, performance arts and outreach programmes, greater community engagement, and vital adaptation during the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. "With a steady, behind-the-scenes approach, Rosemary championed governance, supported funding and development efforts, and contributed to the strategic planning that has helped position Wexford Arts Centre as a leading regional arts venue with national and international partnerships.' In her final address to the Board, Ms Hartigan acknowledged the valuable contribution of past and present members, the dedicated team of staff, artists, volunteers, funders and wider community partners who have worked alongside her over the years to ensure the Arts Centre's success. Wexford Arts Centre is also seeking to appoint a new Director of Finance to replace Craig O'Toole who is stepping down after five years in the role and he was also thanked for his guidance and contribution to the centre's good governance during his tenure.
Irish Independent
06-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Irish Independent
Over 50 free events to take place across Wexford for Cruinniú na nÓg
This year's programme boasts over 50 free events for children taking place on the day across Wexford's five libraries. Additionally, the county's iconic cultural venues, from the National Opera House to the Wexford Arts Centre, will be alive with activities ranging from animation and coding workshops to creative writing, mural painting, printmaking, and much, much more. Also announced in the programme, teenagers from Belfast and Wexford will present a unique virtual reality performance, while a special night time event has been announced for Enniscorthy's Vinegar Hill. Speaking at the programme launch Elizabeth Howard, the creative communities Engagement officer, invited the young people of Wexford to come and be inspired. 'It's a fantastic free day for young people to try something new, show off their skills, or discover a hidden talent. The theme of this year's programme is inclusion and connection and we would encourage people of all backgrounds and abilities to join celebrations.' Speaking at the announcement Cllr. Pip Breen, Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council remarked, 'Cruinniú na nÓg is an incredible celebration of youthful creativity, providing a platform for children and young people to participate in the arts within their communities. We extend our heartfelt appreciation to the local youth organisations, creative professionals, libraries, and community groups, without whom this event would not be possible. I would encourage all young people in the county to come join the celebrations.' This year specially curated workshops will take place across Wexford's five libraries. Designed from toddlers to twelve year olds, activities can be booked on the official website. At Wexford Town Library, children will have the opportunity to explore the art of weaving or create memory maps through collage, coloring, and drawing. Artist and designer Cuan Cusack will lead workshops focused on creating fine art prints using shadows and sunlight. Young musicians can also participate in the 'music and movement for little ones' workshop. Additionally, theatre maker Alison Ni Mhairtin will conduct an Irish Sign Language drama storytelling workshop specifically designed for children with additional needs. At Gorey Library, renowned painter Lillian O'Sullivan will conduct introductory oil painting classes for children. Young people can explore bookbinding and illustration, or participate in a bilingual singing workshop. Elizabeth Flynn will lead a weaving workshop using seasonal plants, and there will be an opportunity for aspiring computer scientists to learn coding through bracelet-making. Additionally, neurodiverse children, or those who may feel overwhelmed, will benefit from the Sensory Hour facilitated by Cathy Coughlan. At Enniscorthy Library the award-winning designer and upcycling advocate Lynn Haughton will lead a workshop where children can decorate large puzzle pieces with upcycled materials. The Wexford Youth Theatre WACT will offer acting lessons, while NCAD graduate Millie Case will conduct workshops in wet wool felting. Additionally, children can take part in stop motion animation workshops or engage in a sensory activity where they will 'Create their own calm down bottle'. Over at Bunclody Library there will be storytelling through LEGO games and musician Laura Hyland will be leading a workshop in singing and voice work. At New Ross Library artist Celeste Shimora Goedert will lead workshops in 'print making with natural materials' and there will be workshops in drama and music. There are also many other activities geared towards teenagers, and fans of The Banshees of Inisherin. At the Taghmon Family Resource Centre, filmmaker Leah O'Toole, known for her work on The Banshees of Inisherin, will be leading a filmmaking workshop. Additionally, the Red Moon Theatre Company will offer workshops for children. Director Tony McLeane-Fay from Barecheek Theatre Company will conduct acting workshops at The National Opera House and at the Gorey Family Resource Centre there will also be workshops led by mixed media artist Elaine Tobin from the Gorey Arts Collective. Teenagers can look forward to mural painting demonstrations at the Presentation Arts Centre in Enniscorthy, as well as at the Wexford Arts Centre. Facilitated by The Walls Project, Wexford Arts Centre will also host coding workshops presented by Anyone4Science. The Stella Maris Centre in Kilmore Quay will host 'Yola and Our Stories', an engaging theatre workshop for children focusing on heritage, history, and storytelling, facilitated by Chris Moran. This year, teenagers from Wexford and Belfast will come together as part of an innovative 'Shared Island' project that aims to spark critical discussions about misinformation surrounding the topics of climate change and health. The groups will engage online and work with theatre professionals to create a scripted performance. A 360-degree VR video expert will record the final performances, and members of the public will have the opportunity to experience the piece using Google Cardboard viewers that will be available at libraries throughout the county. As part of this year's theme of inclusion and connection, Cruinniú na nÓg will partner with seven groups across Wexford identified as 'Seldom Heard.' These essential community groups provide support to young people on various issues, including LGBTQI+ support, young individuals in direct provision, and those living with long-term illnesses. Each group will be matched with an artist or expert facilitator who comes from similar background or has been through similar life experiences as those participating in the groups. The day will end with a bang on top of Vinegar Hill featuring 'The Night Belongs to Youth,' a collaborative project with Creative Places Enniscorthy. The sunset event on Vinegar Hill will be open to the public and will feature a movement piece led by young people of Enniscorthy to the summit of the hill. The full schedule with details can be accessed on the website.
Irish Independent
18-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Irish Independent
Wexford's Pride in the Park returns to celebrate ‘beautiful diversity' in family-friendly community event
Now in its fifth year, Wexford's Pride in the Park returns to Min Ryan Park on Saturday, May 31, from 12pm to 6pm. Organised by Wexford Pride, the event is a vibrant annual celebration that brings together the LGBTQIA+ community and its allies in a celebration of inclusion, solidarity, and queer joy. The free, family-friendly neuro-inclusive event will feature a diverse line-up of LGBTQIA+ musicians and acts with performances from both emerging and established local talent including 12 Gauge Outrage, Bloco Garman, Ovalords, Mz Red Dear, Andrei Boyd, Lilli Dobbs, Johnny O'Brien and the Wexford Pride Queer Chorus. Further acts are also set to be announced. A Wexford Pride spokesperson said: 'In addition to music, attendees will be able to explore an array of community vendors, food trucks, and community organisations fighting to create the world a more equal place for all. There will be something for everyone – whether you're there to support a cause, enjoy the atmosphere, or connect with others!' To round off the day's celebrations the Wexford Pride in The Park After-Party will be hosted by Wexford Arts Centre, with festivities led by Poppy DeScrace and The Disgraceful Cabaret. Disgraceful Cabaret is a Queer & Neurodivergent run show striving for inclusively & silliness. Expect Pride themed & Cosplay acts from King's, Queens, Things & Burlesquers: Poppy De Scrace, RICHARD Joke, Asher B Grant, Mx Teaze, Chronic QT & more, with prizes for best dressed on the night! Tickets can be purchased via Wexford Arts Centre, be sure to book early to avoid disappointment. 'Pride in the Park is a positive, affirming celebration of our beautiful diversity! There will always be people who think we shouldn't exist, and this is our chance to ignore all of that and just focus on love and inclusivity,' said Veronica Victor. Over the past five years, LGBTQIA+ spaces in Wexford have grown through the continued voluntary efforts of both the community and its allies — carving out welcoming, affirming spaces that support LGBTQIA+ people at all stages of their journey. These spaces are vital, especially in rural areas, where access to support and visibility is often limited. Pride in the Park is more than a celebration, it's a moment to connect, reflect, and honour the legacy of our communities' struggle for social equality. Each year Pride in The Park brings together community organisations united in working to create a more equal society for all and this year is no different. In recent weeks Wexford Pride has spoken out against intolerance, amid growing transphobia in the UK, US and abroad, and in favour of an Ireland that embraces diversity and defends every person's right to live a free and authentic life regardless of their race, gender or backgrounds. 'We're living at a time that is growing increasingly hostile to difference – where marginalised communities are often met with exclusion and hate in response to the inequalities we face in a changing world, said PRO Rían Browne. 'It's vital we act to make it clear to decision makers that this bigotry is not welcome here and does not reflect the views of a majority of Irish society. Through our work, we know what can be achieved when we come together to embrace inclusion, diversity, and belonging.' Pride in The Park is free to attend and open to all. For event updates, opportunities to get involved or support our work visit: Tickets for Disgraceful Cabaret Pride After Party are available through
