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The cast of ‘It Takes A Village’ at rehearsals for the performance at Culture Night in Siamsa Tire last September. Photo by Dermot Crean
CULTURE Night this year takes place on Friday, September 21 and offers the public a free opportunity to see the work of artists and creative industry professionals, arts organisations and cultural venues on the night.
“A great many venues across Kerry stay open late into the night and use the platform as an opportunity to engage with the public, to find new audiences and new visitors to their premises” says Kate Kennelly, the Arts Officer at Kerry County Council.
It also represents an opportunity for communities in towns and villages to plan their culture night events so that audiences can move from venue to venue to take in all the events.
The night is supported through the Arts Office who offer promotional support to organisations and groups to get involved.
“The emphasis is on arts activity across all artforms, such as music, dance, film, art and literature and it is designed so that anyone can experience an arts event in their local area,” stated An Cathaoirleach, Councillor Norma Foley.
The Arts Office is reaching out to new communities and all towns and villages to get involved in a programme of events for their area. With the addition of some support from Creative Ireland there is an enhanced focus on creativity.
“As a teacher I have seen first-hand the huge benefits to young people who experience the arts, not just in self-expression and creativity but also for the positive benefits to mental health and well-being”, Councillor Foley went on to say.
Anyone interested in getting involved is being asked to contact the Arts Office by the 20thJuly and by email to arts@kerrycoco.ie or by phone to 066 7183782/7183541
