The festival will run from Friday, 21st of March to Saturday, 29th of March in Glenamaddy Town Hall Theatre. Nine nights of excellent drama will take place in the beautiful Town Hall Theatre.

The Festival programme provides a range of fantastic theatre over the nine nights. The line-up is as follows: Friday, 21st of March: Big Guerilla Productions (non-competitive) ‘Indigestion’ by Seamus O’Rourke; Saturday, 22nd of March: Corofin Dramatic Society, Co  Clare (OPEN) ‘The Weir’ by Conor McPherson; Sunday, 23rd of March: Cornmill Theatre Group, Co Leitrim (OPEN) ‘A Whistle in the Dark’ by Tom Murphy; Monday, 24th of March: Phoenix Players, Co Sligo (CONFINED) ‘Translations’ by Brian Friel; Tuesday, 25th of March: Flavour of the Month Productions, Co Kerry (CONFINED) ‘The Beauty Queen of Leenane’ by Martin McDonagh; Wednesday, 26th of March: Glenamaddy Players, Co Galway (CONFINED) ‘CLASS’ by Iseult Golden & David Horan; Thursday, 27th of March: Clann Machua Drama, Co Mayo (CONFINED) ‘The Snapper’ by Roddy Doyle; Friday, 28th of March: Kilmeen Drama Group, Co Cork (OPEN) ‘The Wasp’ by Morgan Lloyd Malcolm; Saturday, 29th of March: Ballyduff Drama Group, Co Waterford (OPEN) ‘The Blackwater Lightship’ by Colm Tόibín (adapted by David Horan).

This year’s adjudicator is Paula Dempsey ADA. The shows will commence at 8 pm sharp each night, except the final night where the show will start at 7.30 pm sharp.

Nightly tickets priced at €15 (+ booking fee) went on sale on Thursday, 6th of March. Please keep an eye on our social media for updates – ‘Glenamaddy Theatre Festival’ on both Instagram and Facebook.

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The transition year cast of 2024/25 are all set to take to the stage with the original musical ‘Illegally Blonde’, directed and produced by Peter McLoughlin. Adding extra sparkle to the production are the choir under the baton of music teacher Olivia Stack, while the creative dancing is the brainchild of choreographer Emma Coleman.

Although entertainment is the order of the day, there are a few life lessons to be learned along the way, with this modern story addressing the timeless themes of love, friendship, racism, self-discovery and teamwork.

The story follows the glamorous and ever-optimistic Elle Woods, whose world seems picture-perfect… until her boyfriend, Warner Blake IV, abruptly dumps her to focus on his future at Harvard with his new love Vivienne. Heartbroken but determined, Elle makes a bold move: she follows her friend Meagan Davis to Harvard, aiming to win Warner back. But can she prove she is more than just a blonde Beverly Hills fashion queen? Does she have the brains, drive, and resilience to succeed in the Ivy League – and even outshine Warner himself?

There is only one way to find out! Grab your ticket to Harvard and join Elle’s journey at St Nathy’s College from Thursday, March 13th, to Saturday, March 15th.

Principal Fr Martin Henry praises the show as a testament to the incredible dedication and hard work of the transition year students: “Transition year in St Nathy’s is all about teamwork, and these students have really worked as a team from building and painting the set to accessing props and costumes effectively building on the success of last year’s production, ‘Mama Mia, Papa Mia!’.”

The curtain rises at 8 pm sharp each night, with tickets available at the school office, Imelda Towey’s, and online at stnathys.com.

Do not miss this unforgettable night of music, comedy, colour, cheeky dancing, song, and show-stopping performances!

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The event will feature material from the podcasts and films created as part of the digital storymap, as well as traditional music and song to celebrate St Patrick’s Day.

The creation of the digital storymap was made possible through funding from the Heritage Council Community Grants Scheme and support from Galway County Council Heritage Office and Heritage Officer Marie Mannion.

The project was overseen by Zena Hoctor, who also worked on the Creggs Heritage Audit launched in 2018. Christy Cunniffe was also involved in the Heritage Audit in 2018 and features on two of the videos, one on the Streetscape of the Village and the other on Ironworks in the Creggs Area. The third video focuses on biodiversity in the Creggs area and the great work that is ongoing in the village and surrounding areas in this regard.

Three podcasts were recorded on a Sunday morning in June 2024. One explores the connection between Parnell and Creggs, and another looks at the epic march of Donal Cam O’Sullivan Beare and how he and his band of followers came across Mount Mary in the winter of 1603. The third podcast featured a ‘Kilbegnet Rambling House’, which brought together some stories and reminiscences of the Kilbegnet area.

Sadly, two of those who contributed on that Sunday morning last year, Seamus Keane and Paddy Lohan, have since passed on to their eternal reward, and their contributions to the podcast and to the wider community will also be remembered and celebrated on the night.

Chairperson of Creggs Rural Development Seán Beirne said, “This event on Friday night, March 14^th, will be an opportunity to celebrate the history and heritage of the area and bring people together for a celebration of our national holiday. It will also be an opportunity to celebrate those who have contributed so much to the heritage of our local area, including Seamus Keane and Paddy Lohan, and introduce people to the new digital storymap, which outlines 15 points of historical interest in the locality, and brings these to life through podcasts and short films. Admission is free and all are welcome.

“We look forward to meeting you in the school hall for this get-together.”

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Roscommon County Council is now inviting applications for the Heritage Research Bursary 2025. This year applications will only be accepted via My Online Services. Register for online services at www.roscommoncoco.ie. The closing date for receipt of completed application forms and accompanying information is 5pm on Friday, 14th March 2025.

The research project must be at MA, MSc, or PhD level in a recognised third level college. Applicants must demonstrate how their research will contribute to fulfilment of the aim and Strategic Goal 8 of the County Roscommon Heritage Plan 2017-2021.

Areas of research to date have included archaeology, settlement, ecology, history, music & cultural heritage. ‘Roscommon Heritage Research Bursary provides valuable assistance to early career researchers. There is one bursary award only and the maximum value of the award is €1,000.

Reports from previous bursary research can be viewed on https://www.roscommoncoco.ie/coco/en/services/community/heritage/heritage/heritage-research-bursary/

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The festival was launched by Marie Loftus, Secretary of The Connaught Council and Director of Ballina One-Act Festival, a great friend of Glenamaddy Theatre Festival. She was truly honoured to launch this 61st Festival and commended the local committee on a well-run event. She spoke of the great tradition of drama in Glenamaddy and friendships formed and wished all concerned the very best for the Festival in March.

The Glenamaddy Theatre Festival is widely regarded as one of the best nationally. This Festival showcases the very best of Irish Amateur Drama both in its open and confined sections with groups from all over Ireland competing for the coveted awards.

The 61st annual Glenamaddy Theatre Festival opens on Friday, 21st of March for nine nights, concluding on Saturday, 29th of March.

The shows will commence at 8 pm sharp each night, except the final night where the show will start at 7.30 pm sharp.

Nightly tickets priced at €15 (+ booking fee) will go on sale on Thursday, 6th of March via www.glenamaddydrama.ie/booking (Eventbrite Link). Please keep an eye on our social media for updates – ‘Glenamaddy Theatre Festival’ on both Instagram and Facebook.

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A silver anniversary of joy and enduring achievement was celebrated last Friday night in Roscommon Arts Centre at celebrations marking the 25^th anniversary of Roscommon County Youth Theatre.

A special video message from Boyle actor Chris O’Dowd highlighted the importance of RCYT to the local cultural landscape. He congratulated RCYT on their success suggesting “all the best stories come from ‘small towns’.”

From humble beginnings the success of RCYT has mirrored that of what is today a burgeoning local arts centre. At the time of its inception, Roscommon did not have a dedicated Arts Centre nor was there any programme for youth theatre in the county.

Today, RCYT working from its spiritual home of Roscommon Arts Centre continues to be supported by the Arts Office of Roscommon County Council as well as Youth Theatre Ireland and the Arts Council of Ireland.

In its 25 year existence over one thousand students have come through the doors of RCYT, supporting careers in dramatic performance, staging, lighting, production, media and other forms of creative expression.

Highlights of Friday’s Gala Night included a premiere of a specially commissioned documentary called ‘Open Your Mouth’, directed by Graham Cantwell with the original production written by Catherine Sheridan. The screening highlighted last year’s unique production which emerged from the challenges and reflections shared by RCYT members.

Earlier, some of the many highlights of RCYT’s 25 years were also screened, showcasing the many and diverse productions undertaken in that time, ranging from Alice in Wonderland, Romeo and Juliet and The Crucible as well as a special production of ‘The Snow Queen’ to mark Roscommon Town’s inaugural Christmas Festival in 2021.

Throughout its history, RCYT has also produced innovative theatre. To mark the centenary of the 1916 Rising ‘If I Was In The GPO, We Would Have Won’, written by Catherine Sheridan shone a contemporary light on one of Irish history’s most tumultuous events. Last year’s ‘Open Your Mouth’ emerged from engagement with members on the challenges facing young people today.

Opening proceedings Artistic Director of RCYT, Catherine Sheridan said her group was “a flagship programme of Roscommon County Council where young people find advocacy, agency and empowerment – we nurture creativity in all its forms.

“Young people have mastered their particular craft with us and have gone on to have very successful careers. But it’s the values that have been instilled in our members such as friendship and community that are important too – we’re not just a theatre, we’re a family too”, said Ms. Sheridan.

Current and past members of RCYT also addressed the gala event. Youth Theatre Leader and Light and Sound Designer Michael Foley has worked with the group for the past thirteen years, the last eight of which have been working in the areas of lighting and sound.

He described his experience as “finding his voice” adding: “Youth Theatre has shaped my entire career. I’ve studied in Spain and in the United States and worked on tours across Europe. We (RCYT) work to a professional standard. It’s not about ‘little theatre for little people’”, he added.

Similar sentiments were expressed by past and current RCYT members Claire Muldoon, Emily Hough, Kiera Gardner and Aaron Byrne, all of whom spoke about how the traits of leadership, teamwork and confidence building helped them in their careers as well as overcoming issues such as anxiety.

Director of Youth Theatre Ireland (YTI) Eoghan Doyle congratulated the achievements of RCYT. He said the group were one of 57 youth groups under the remit of YTI, supporting 3,000 actors and 350 leaders, remarking “youth theatre is special; it’s about the holistic development of the young person.

“Young people have an important voice. Someone I know said to me recently “young people aren’t the future – they are the now. Your success takes vision, passion and belief. It also takes the support of parents and families.

“The success of Youth Theatre is what happens when you put sustained investment in the Arts and young people. It’s evident from the reaction here that you know you’re lucky to have Catherine (Sheridan). Here’s to 25 years and more!” Mr. Doyle remarked.

Presenting the special screening of ‘Open Your Mouth’, documentary maker Graham Cantwell urged members of RCYT “to speak your truth. We need to hear what you say. Keep ‘opening your mouth’ – keep standing up and keep speaking out” before paying tribute to Isaac and George Naughton who are supported by RCYT and the ‘Join Our Boys’ campaign.

Youth Theatre – A Celebration of young lives

The red carpet prominently on display as one entered Roscommon Arts Centre last Friday symbolised the gala occasion that was the celebration of 25 years of Roscommon County Youth Theatre (RCYT) which celebrated past, present and indeed future members.

The idea of a youth theatre group emerged from the experience of the group’s Artistic Director, Catherine Sheridan, who, while a student in Dublin, was a member of Dublin Youth Theatre. The germ of an idea to create a similar group in Roscommon was born and the rest, well, is history that continues to be made, 25 years on.

Speaking at Friday’s celebrations, Leas Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council, Cllr. Larry Brennan acknowledged the considerable artistic influence of the group upon past and current generations of young people.

“Tonight celebrates what Roscommon County Youth Theatre is all about, providing a platform for young people between the ages of 10 and 18 to express themselves, celebrate their lives and the lives of others. Your vision has enriched the lives of many young people. Past and current members enjoy enduring and successful careers in performance, lighting, sound, journalism and performance management.

“Leading that vision has been Catherine Sheridan. From a family rich in creative expression, the Simon’s of Boyle, Catherine is the powerhouse behind RCYT. Her energy, commitment and dedication is boundless and rubs off on all who are part of your wonderful journey to date.

“It is important also to recognise the importance of Roscommon County Council, who have supported our youth theatre in those twenty-five years. For that I salute the support of Arts Officer Rhona McGrath and Arts Centre Manager Catherine Lee and her team, the youth theatre’s home.

Members have been busy rehearsing this week for their next production and I urge you to return from May 1^st to 3^rd for performances of ‘The Wind in the Willows’. As the saying goes ‘once you are bitten, you’ll be truly smitten’”, Cllr. Brennan concluded.

Arts Officer with Roscommon County Council Rhona McGrath also acknowledged the achievements of RCYT, suggesting: “Who’d have thought when you were first established that we’d be here tonight to celebrate 25 years?

“Roscommon Arts Centre didn’t exist 25 years ago, nor did the office of Arts Officer. I’d like to thank you for your vision, innovation and dedication. You work in an inspiring way and provide great leadership”, Ms. McGrath said.

As well as the group’s annual production of the aforementioned ‘Wind In the Willows’, RCYT have been honoured this year as one of ten youth theatre groups participating in the Youth Theatre of Ireland National Festival of Youth Theatres in Kilkenny in June. Members will also be participating in the annual Cruinniu na nÓg celebrations on 7th of June.

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The satirical comedy ‘I Do Not Like Thee, Dr Fell’ by Bernard Farrell is due for a three-night run at The Trinity Arts Centre in Castlerea.

The show will be performed by Castlerea Drama Group on Thursday, February 27th, Friday the 28th, and Saturday, March 1st.

The public can book their seats through Eventbrite. There will be limited tickets available at the door (see more ticket details in advertisement alongside).

Castlerea Drama Group was founded in 1966, and for many years, under the able direction of the late Michael O’Flynn, the group staged many productions both for the home audience and on the amateur drama circuit.

On three occasions, the group was runner-up in the All-Ireland Confined Festival of Drama with Lennox Robinson’s ‘The Far Off Hills’, Jean Anouilh’s ‘Ring Round The Moon’ and Walter Macken’s ‘Home is The Hero’.

In more recent years the group has staged a variety of plays, including Martin McDonagh’s ‘The Cripple of Inishmaan’, Agatha Christie’s ‘And Then There Were None’ and John B Keane’s ‘The Field’.

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Roscommon County Council, in partnership with Creative Ireland, is excited to announce the call for applications for Cruinniú na nÓg 2025, taking place on Saturday, June 7th, 2025. This national day of FREE creativity for young people offers children and teens (ages 0-18) the chance to engage in fun, free, and hands-on creative activities in their local communities.

The council is now inviting artists, creative groups, and youth organisations to submit proposals for exciting workshops, events, and creative experiences that will help unlock the creative potential of Roscommon’s young people. Grants of up to €1,000 are available to support selected projects.

We asked young people what creative activities they love and what new ones they want to try, and their responses were inspiring! Based on their feedback, we encourage proposals that reflect these popular interests:

· Clay, Pottery & Sculpting

· Photography

· Theatre & Costume Design

· Trying New Instruments

· Design

· Street Art and Murals

· Sewing, Knitting & Crochet

Get Involved! Apply to Bring Your Creative Idea to Life

We are seeking proposals that offer engaging, interactive experiences in a wide range of creative areas, including theatre, music, dance, film, circus, fashion, photography, visual arts, digital arts, storytelling, street art, architecture, coding, nature projects, heritage, archaeology, and more!

Projects should put young people at the centre, encouraging active participation and creative exploration. We especially welcome projects that provide new opportunities for those who may not have had access to creative experiences before.

Introducing Cruinniú Late

As part of this year’s programme, we are also looking for proposals for Cruinniú Late, an event designed specifically for teenagers. This event should start no earlier than 4 PM and finish no earlier than 8 PM (later running times are encouraged).

Selection Criteria

Projects will be chosen based on:

· Engagement & Participation – How well young people are involved in creativity and the community.

· Youth Involvement – How much input young people have in shaping the idea.

· Relevance – How well the proposal aligns with young people’s interests.

· Diversity & Accessibility – How many young people can take part, including those from diverse backgrounds.

· Experience & Feasibility – The applicant’s experience in running creative events for young people.

Key Information for Applicants

· Events can take place before and on June 7th, 2025, but must include at least one activity on the main event day.

· Grants are available up to €1,000, with most awards ranging between €500 and €1,000.

· Only fully completed applications will be considered.

· Not all applications may receive funding; events that best align with Cruinniú na nÓg’s goals will be prioritised.

· All projects must comply with child protection legislation and have appropriate safeguarding policies in place.

· Applicants may submit up to three supporting files (e.g., images, recordings, or videos). Files should be in .doc, .pdf, or .jpg formats, while video and audio files should be shared via online links.

How to Apply

To apply, send your completed application form and supporting materials via email to creativeireland@roscommoncoco.ie. For further information, contact the Roscommon Arts Office at 090 663 7271 or email creativeireland@roscommoncoco.ie.

Applications forms can be found at https://www.roscommoncoco.ie/en/services/community/creative-ireland/cruinniu-na-nog/

Application Deadline: Thursday, March 6th, 2025

Let’s make Cruinniú na nÓg 2025 a vibrant celebration of youth creativity in Roscommon! We can’t wait to see your inspiring ideas come to life.

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Edward Hayden, Chairperson of the Drama League of Ireland, will be opening this year’s festival. Best known for his popular weekly cooking slots on Virgin Media’s Ireland AM, and as the presenter of ‘The Saturday Show with Edward Hayden’ on KCLR96fm, Hayden is an experienced radio and TV personality.

The multi-talented Hayden is also an acclaimed author, with three cookery books to his name: ‘Edward Entertains’, ‘Food to Love’ (which was awarded the prestigious Kerry Food Book of the Year), and ‘Food for Friends’. He also shares his culinary skills as a lecturer at Waterford Institute of Technology, where he leads the Higher Certificate in Culinary Arts Programme.

  The Roscommon Drama Festival Committee commented: “We are delighted to welcome Edward Hayden Chairperson of the Drama League of Ireland to open our Festival.” 

  The Roscommon Drama Festival takes place from Friday, 7th March. Tickets are on sale now at Roscommon Arts Centre (€17).

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