Culture Night in Balbriggan provided another stunning example of how the seaside town is becoming a major centre for all things creative, filling the town with colour, music, song, film, stories and wonderful events.
Culture Night marked the climax of the ‘How it’s Made’ Festival, facilitated by the local Scéal Arts collective, in partnership with the Our Balbriggan Rejuvenation Programme, led by Fingal County Council, and the locally based Irish Institute of Music and Song (IIMS).
‘How it’s Made’ ran over three weekends in the run-up to Culture Night on Friday and was supported by the Arts Council and Creative Ireland
Culture Night venues included The Warehouse on Vauxhall Street, The Vault at the old bank on George’s Square, The Boathouse under the Viaduct on Quay Street, The Our Balbriggan Hub on George’s Square, The Window at 4 Dublin Street, and significantly the IIMS which will shortly open a new state of the art 400-seater concert hall, The Lark.
As well as documentary film screenings, there were art and photographic exhibitions, reading and musical tours, performances and recitals with local businesses including Molly’s Coffee Shop and The Central Bar joining as hosts.
Cultural organisations, castles and historic houses, extended their opening hours to the public, highlighting the wealth of facilities and talented people in the locality.
Hundreds of people turned out for events in Balbriggan to mark Culture Night.
Amongst other events, the Our Balbriggan Hub welcomed visitors to George’s Square where local musicians, artists and photographers gathered.
“Culture Night in Balbriggan celebrated the superb community spirit and talents of its people,” said the chair of the Our Balbriggan Leadership Group, Professor Brian MacCraith. “There was a wonderful programme of events, each of which celebrated Balbriggan’s appetite for culture and most importantly of all, Culture Night showcased the bonds which tie the community together and make it such a special place.
“It was fantastic to see so many events showcasing local talent, bringing acclaimed artists to Balbriggan and also people together through the arts.
Now designated as a ‘Creative Place’ by the Arts Council, the long-term aim is that 10 years from now people from all creative disciplines will want to spend time in Balbriggan.
Pictures Siobhan Taylor
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