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Support for Little Theatre in Sligofrom The Sligo Champion, September 19th, 1971 A call to the people of Sligo to support Sligo Drama Circle in their efforts to provide a Little Theatre in the town was made by North West Regional Tourism Manager, Mr. Eamonn P. Hoy, when he officially closed their summer season at Sligo Town Hall. Earlier, Mr. P. Foran, Chairman of the Drama Circle, said over two thousand visitors had attended the various plays produced during the summer months. After congratulating the Drama Circle on filling what he described as a vacuum in visitor entertainment in the town, Mr. Hoy said there was a definite need for a Little Theatre in Sligo and the responsibility rested on the Sligo people and the different groups in the town to back up the Drama Circle's project.
He said his organisation were glad to be associated with the Drama Circle in presenting the summer programme as were their colleagues in Bord Fáilte and he expressed the hope that in 1972 it would be possible to provide more substantial assistance towards the summer season. He complimented the players and all those who had helped in any way to make the season such a successful one and said he had been greatly impressed by the performance he had just witnessed. The season was brought to a close with a presentation of "Lovers" by Brian Friel. Other plays produced were "Riders to the Sea", "The Shadow of the Glen", "The Magic Glasses" and "O' Flaherty V.C." as well as a number by W. B. Yeats, during the recent Yeats International Summer School.
Support for Little Theatrefrom The Sligo Champion, November 19th, 1971 In the last two years, Sligo Drama Circle had grown into the most active amateur theatre company in the country and while that was a proud boast it was not an idle one and it was the intention to see that the company became even more active, said the Drama Circle's Chairman, Mr. Liam Mc Kinney, speaking at the annual dinner of the company held in the Bonne Chere Restaurant, Sligo. Mr. Mc Kinney said membership was growing all the time and that was only as it should be as the society was not a closed circle; it was, in fact, very much an open one for the people of the town. It was a Sligo society which had enjoyed the support of Sligo over the years since 1956 when it was founded and he felt sure that the people would support it even more in the future when they may have to call on them in a more material sense.
"Sligo with its cultural conditions and its immense contribution to Irish literature and art deserves at the very least a theatre; not a silent, sterile monument built to show the world "what noble Romans these were", but an active vibrant home of progressive thought in the arts and a workshop for the further development of our long standing traditions through our children", went on Mr. Mc Kinney. "let me say here and now that there is no lack of determination on this matter in this society, but we need help - and like charity, it must begin at home before we can look abroad. I am sure we will not be disappointed and it is because of that confidence that we have started negotiations with at least one other interested party in the matter and we would indeed like to hear from any others there may be".
Mr. Mc Kinney welcomed the Mayor, Mr. Michael Carroll, and referred to the departure from Sligo of two members of the Drama Circle, Mr. Shane Cleary and Mr. Seán O' Reilly. The Mayor, Mr. Carroll, said he was very pleased indeed to attend that annual function which, he believed, marked the opening of a season in the work of the Drama Circle members, although as far as he could see it was hard to see when one season ended and another began for the Drama Circle members. Any Mayor of Sligo received numerous invitations to functions and it was not always easy to attend them all, but it had always been his contention that the First Citizen of the town should make it his business to be present at the functions of those organisations that by their work and attitudes reflected the nature and heart of the town and Sligo Drama Circle was such an organisation.
Time and again the Drama Circle had brought distinction to Sligo and indeed he felt that not full recognition had been given to the members in the past for this. He could hardly think of any other group in the town which had stayed so consistently at the top of their activities as the Drama Circle but probably more important, it had guarded well the long traditions of their craft in Sligo, but, he might add by sticking to past formulas which led to stagnation, but in the common sense progress with the times. He would not regard himself as a theatre critic in any sense but he thought he could still call himself the average playgoer and perhaps in that way more important to a group such as the Drama Circle. What pleased him about the Circle was that while their shows were always of the highest standard, they never attempted to fly over the heads of the ordinary man and there were enough in this country trying this trick. The dedication and energy of the society was what he most admired above all and he was told that they had already a programme planned up until next September which would involve all the members virtually every week. It was obvious that this was not a society where one contribution was made by mere physical presence and it was also evident from their achievements that it was not a 'who's who' society, but a group of dedicated people from all walks of life. Members gave unselfishly of their time for the civic good as was witnessed by their last two summer seasons.
The Mayor said he would like to endorse the remarks about the proposed Little Theatre made by Mr. Mc Kinney. It was a project that deserved the full support of the people of the town and particularly of the authorities here. "Let me assure you that any support that I can give will be speedily forthcoming", went on the Mayor. "Undoubtedly, Sligo is fast becoming the growth point of the North-West and undoubtedly too, we are moving into an age where the demand for thing cultural and fine things in life is growing. Now is the time to plan the ways and means of meeting these demands. Let us not forget that our planning should always reflect our desire to ensure that what we provide for those coming after us will afford every child of this town an opportunity to develop a fullness of personality. Let us plan that the texture of life in the future Sligo will be generous and worthy of our heritage and so I call on all bodies and people interested in seeing this to join with the Drama Circle in getting their worthy project off the ground".
Very Rev. Fr. T. Jordan, O.P., Prior, Holy Cross, Sligo, referred to the link between the church and drama, while Mr. Pádraig Foran thanked the Mayor and Rev. Fr. Jordan for attending and said they had received every encouragement from the Mayor and Corporation as far as the Little Theatre project was concerned.
More Support For Little Theatrefrom The Sligo Champion, August 10th, 1973 A Chara, I don't know how many people in Ireland, or even in Sligo town itself, are aware of it, but in the Sligo Drama Circle you have a very good theatre company and the makings of a great ___. This is the second summer in which I have had the pleasure to watch this company at work - both in rehearsals and in final productions. The acting and producing is often on par with some of the finest productions I have seen in London, Dublin and NYC.
In fact last year I saw both the Abbey Theatre and the Sligo Drama Circle productions of "Philadelphia Here I Come". In terms of character parts and lighting the Drama Circle was by far the better. I won't mention names as other people have done because you are always bound to leave someone out and the key-word in an enterprise such as this should be teamwork. It is very likely that when the technical difficulties endured because there is no permanent home come to an end, the Drama Circle will cause Sligo town to become a Theatre going centre comparative to Stratford-on-Avon. People will come to the North-West because of the theatre.
I hope that people in Sligo will support the Drama Circle by seeing the productions. (If you haven't, you don't know what you're missing!) And I hope the Drama Circle will give us something even more concrete to support by finalising plans for a site so that work on the Little Theatre can begin. Bravo! Jan Meyer, 240 & 55th Street, NYC, USA.
Site For Little Theatrefrom The Sligo Champion, October 19th, 1973 The County Manager, Mr. T. J. Mc Manus and the Mayor, Cllr. Matrin Keaveney, will meet representatives of the Sligo Drama Circle to discuss the possibility of providing a site for a Little Theatre. The decision was made at a meeting of Sligo Corporation after a letter had been received from the Drama Circle. Mr. Mc Manus said that they should discuss the matter with them to see if they had a site in mind.
Bishop Donates Site for Sligo Theatrefrom The Sligo Champion, January 18th, 1974 A major step towards the establishment of a permanent theatre in Sligo was taken at the weekend, when a site for the building was donated to Sligo Drama Circle by His Lordship, Most Rev. Dr. Dominic Conway, Bishop of Elphin. The site, on which it is proposed to build a three hundred seat theatre, consists of approximately one third of an acre, and was formerly the garden of the Retreat House. Although spokesmen for the Drama Circle, Liam Mc Kinney and Lionel Gallagher, admitted the design for the theatre has not been finalised, owing to the lack of a site up to now, it will probably include, apart from the auditorium and staging facilities, club rooms, a lounge, workshop, rehearsal rooms, bar and a scenery dock for storage. "We are very conscious that the building will have to blend with its surroundings, and that it will be situated between two cathedrals", remarked Mr. Mc Kinney. "We have been working on a model based on a modern theatre in Albany, near London, but before any final decision is made, members of the Circle will visit various other modern theatres to get an idea of what is required.
Next move for the Drama Circle is a fund-raising campaign to finance the building of the theatre, the cost of which is estimated at £80,000 approximately. It is hoped that certain grants will be available, and it's planned to set up a broadly-based committee, comprised of various interested parties, to raise the balance of the money. Mr. Mc Kinney pointed out that the theatre will be a civic amenity for the entire North-West area. "We owe a deep debt of gratitude to Bishop Conway for his generosity", he added. "When the theatre is built, Sligo will be one of the only centres, outside Dublin and Cork, to have such a facility, and it can be regarded as a tremendous leap forward". At present, Sligo is not included in circuits made by theatre companies, because of the absence of proper staging facilities. The spokesman felt this would be rectified by the establishment of the theatre. "We hope to stay open all the year round, and to attract National drama groups here", said Mr. Gallagher.
For the Drama Circle themselves, now 120 members strong, the theatre will be a major aid to development and diversification, not just because of the acting facilities it offers, but because for the first time, the group will have a permanent "home" where they can meet regularly. Props and scenery can be made, stored there and accumulated. Branching into Youth Theatre is an important development which will become possible. It is envisaged also that other local drama groups will be able to make use of the theatre, and the Drama Circle are planning to invite top amateur clubs to give performances here. The theatre will not be used solely for drama. It will be available to groups connected with all branches of the arts. The Drama Circle itself has been going from strength to strength. The annually staged Summer Theatre has become increasingly popular, and for the first time last summer the group played to packed houses on several occasions, and seldom had audiences smaller than 80% capacity. "We had faith in Sligo, now Sligo must have faith in itself", says Mr. Mc Kinney.
Theatre For Sligofrom The Sligo Champion, On the Line, by Seamus Finn, January 18th, 1974 The best news to come Sligo's way for a long time is the announcement that Sligo Drama Circle's search for a site for a theatre is over. Thanks to the generosity of the Bishop of Elphin, Most Rev. Dr. Dominic Conway, who has donated a site at the Retreat House, the drama group can now go ahead with its plans to build a three hundred seat theatre, and when the building is completed, Sligo will be the only centre outside Dublin and Cork with such modern theatrical facilities. Obviously, there is a long way to go before the project is finished and the first play is staged in the new building, but with the acquisition of a suitable site, the group has surmounted its greatest single difficulty. Their next move is to launch a fund-raising campaign to finance the building which, it is estimated, will cost in the region of £80,000. Certain grants will, of course, be available, but a considerable amount of money will have to be raised through voluntary effort. This campaign should be supported by everybody with the interests of Sligo at heart. It is the aim of the Drama Group to encourage, not alone drama, but all branches of the arts in Sligo, and the theatre will be used for a variety of purposes. Incidentally, any aspiring playwrights in the Sligo area are encouraged to submit their work to the Drama Circle, and they will be given very favourable consideration.
A Word to Theatre Loversfrom The Sligo Champion, On The Line, by Seamus Finn, March 15th, 1974 Sligo Drama Circle is about to launch several major fund-raising schemes and activities in its efforts to build a theatre in Sligo. The Circle is organising a "value for money" project called "Friends of the Sligo Theatre" - a simple season ticket scheme whereby all who want regular theatre in the town as well as those who wish to see a permanent theatre erected will buy their tickets in advance. A spokesman tells me the Circle is determined to give value for money and is planning to present eight different productions during 1974. "Men Without Shadows", by Jean Paul Sartre, has already been performed in Sligo Town Hall, and such was the response on the final might of its initial run that it is certain to return in the near future.
"The Mother", by Martin Gorky, is in full rehearsal at the moment and will shortly take the boards, while other plays in the pipeline include "Stephen D" by James Joyce; "The Millionairess" by G. B. Shaw; O' Casey's "Juno and the Paycock"; "At the Hawk's Well" and "Deirdre" by W. B. Yeats and at least two other productions during the autumn/winter season. To become a "Friend of the Sligo Theatre", all one has to do is buy a season ticket for 1974. This will entitle the ticket holder to two seats for each play produced and will cost £10. The stimulus provided to the Circle would be enormous - not only would its supporters fund its many ventures and encourage it in its work, but they would also ensure that Sligo will have a theatre company more active than any other in this country excluding full time professionals.
Anyone interested should contact the Drama Circle at the Yeats Memorial Building, Sligo. People to ask for are Joe Meehan, Liam Mc Kinney and Lionel Gallagher. "We appeal particularly to other drama groups in the North and West to take some season tickets as we would welcome their support during their off-season", said a spokesman. "Please help us to make this venture a success, and while you're at it, why not persuade your friends to become "Friends of the Sligo Theatre". Why not indeed!
Theatre Donationfrom The Western People, April 13th, 1974 A first donation of one hundred dollars towards The Little Theatre Fund in Sligo was handed over by the Mayor, Cllr. Martin Keaveney, to members of Sligo Drama Circle on Friday night last. The gift was from the Mayor of St. Louis, Mr. John H. Boelker, who presented it to Mayor Keaveney when he was in St. Louis to lead the St. Patrick's Day parade there. Cllr. Keaveney, who distributed Drama Circle brochures at a number of functions in the U.S., said that he expected many more American dollars would be contributed to the fund to establish a theatre in Sligo. He said that Sligo was expected to grow to 35,000 people in the future and the provision of a theatre in the city would ensure that cultural facilities would be available and that this growth would not be confined to the industrial and business spheres. Mr. Lionel Gallagher, on behalf of the Drama Circle, thanked the Mayor and the Corporation for their interest in the project. "This will be a civic amenity not just for the Drama Circle but for the people of Sligo and the North-West", he said. Mr. Gallagher said that as a gesture of thanks and appreciation of the gift from the Mayor of St. Louis, the Circle would put on a special show for a party of between 50 and 70 people from St. Louis who are expected to visit Sligo in September.
Theatre For Sligo - Plans Outlinedfrom The Sligo Champion, June 14th, 1974 At a press conference held in the Yeats Memorial Building, Sligo, on Monday evening, members of Sligo Drama Circle reported progress on their plans to build a theatre for Sligo, gave details of fund-raising schemes for the project and announced the programme for "Summer Theatre '74". Mr. Joe Meehan, Chairman of "A Theatre for Sligo" committee reported that following acquisition of the Temple Street site from Most Rev. Dr. Conway, Bishop of Elphin, the committee had been involved with the necessary legal and administrative preliminaries. He said this stage had almost passed, and the second and more difficult stage of fund-raising had been reached. Legally, Sligo Drama Circle was now Sligo Drama Circle Incorporated with an office in the Yeats Memorial Building, and with Directors and the Circle was now in a legal position to collect money and own property. Planning permission had been applied for from Sligo Corporation and no problems had arisen on that score.
Architects had been approached and some outline plans had already been submitted. A broadly-based committee of prominent Sligo people had been set up to augment the Drama Circle in their efforts, and plans were well afoot to establish a National Advisory Council of people prominent in Irish Theatrical life and in Irish cultural life generally, to assist and advise the local committees in their endeavours. The stage had now been reached where fund-raising must now begin. Mr. Lionel Gallagher said that fund-raising up to now was of an individual nature, some of it being quite encouraging, including the donation from the Mayor of St. Louis, USA, Mr. John H. Boelker, through the good offices of Sligo's Mayor, Cllr. Martin Keaveney. However, now they were calling for a concerted effort from all members and supporters for projects that would be launched on a phased basis from now on.
The first of these was called "Friends of the Sligo Theatre". This was a scheme whereby people in Sligo and the hinterland of Sligo would buy an annual ticket for £10. This investment of £10 in the Theatre Fund would give the investor two free tickets for every Drama Circle play presented in the next twelve months - including the Summer Theatre plays, a new autumn-winter season, and Spring Theatre'75 incorporating next year's festival production. "It is vital to make this scheme a success", Mr Gallagher continued, "as it would be a yardstick of our local support and grants and donations from outside Sligo will depend to a large extent on the measure of support we get at home". In this way the £10 would be worth much more than its face value - it would fund the shows in advance and enable the Circle to make more money for the project. And more than that, it would be the strongest argument the Circle could have when its members went outside Sligo to Government and other agencies, asking them to match their investment with what had already been raised locally. "For this £10 you are showing your faith in the future of Sligo, and you are bringing more money from outside into Sligo - and into the bargain, you are going to see some good plays", Mr. Gallagher added. He appealed for support for the scheme and asked as many as possible to become "A Friend of the Sligo Theatre". Further information could be obtained from the Secretary, "A Theatre for Sligo", Yeats Memorial Building, Sligo.
Mr. Liam Mc Kinney gave details of a scheme which would be formally launched in the autumn at the end of 'Summer Theatre '74'. This is a life patron scheme, and it will involve contributions of £100 in four annual instalments of £25 each. Each contributor to the scheme will become a life member of the Circle, with full voting rights, and will also become a patron of the theatre, with his or her name permanently displayed in the theatre. A suitable inscribed certificate will be presented to all patrons. This scheme will be launched on a local, national and international basis. Further details will be announced in the autumn. Mr. John Mullaney spoke on grants and foundations, and the efforts and hopes of securing assistance from these sources at home and overseas. Mr. Harold Johnston outlined an approach which will be made to local and national firms, and Mr. Rory Callagy spoke of fund-raising activities by members of Sligo Drama Circle other than the normal activity of the group - which is the presentation of plays.
Mr. Meehan thanked the members of the press for supporting the Conference and also the representatives of the other organisations and bodies who attended. He particularly thanked the Yeats Society for placing their facilities at the disposal of the Drama Circle and the final word of thanks went to Mr. Mc Donagh of the Bonne Chere who was in charge of the catering.
Nice Surprisefrom The Sligo Champion, On the Line, by Seamus Finn, July 5th, 1974 An unusual Press Release this week from Sligo Drama Circle. Here it is: "'There is hope for the younger generation yet' says a well-known television advertisement. These sentiments could well be echoed by Sligo Drama Circle's 'A Theatre for Sligo' Committee last week. Imagine the surprised pleasure Walter Mc Donagh of the Circle got when some young ladies walked into his home and handed him an envelope on which was written "In aide of A Theatre for Sligo" - and eight names. Inside were he proceeds of a sale of work organised by these young actresses of the future, seven of them from Scoil Ursula and one from the Model School. What particularly pleased the Drama Circle was that the girls had thought up the idea themselves and carried it through without any prompting from their parents or teachers.
On second thoughts, maybe 'actresses of the future' isn't all hat appropriate a title to give them as they have already proved their worth on the stage in Irish language plays during the last school year. The money collected will only go a small way towards putting a theatre in Temple Street, but the morale booster which their efforts gave to the hardworking fund-raisers of the Circle is tremendous. And at the opening of Summer Theatre the Drama Circle had the eight girls as special guests when Brendan O' Brien of the Amateur Drama Council declared curtain up on Bernard Shaw's "The Millionairess". As Yeats might say - "We number them in our song". Maeve Royston, Lynn Burnett, Mary Somers, Teresa Kent, Paula Murphy, Evelyn Kane, Yvonne Eames, and Nuala Mc Goldrick - we hope that it won't be too long before you grace the stage in Temple Street!" I second that.......
Theatre For Sligo Plan Explained to Corporationfrom The Sligo Champion, July 4th, 1975 "At no time in the forseeable future will this country be able to afford to give every town in the land its own theatre or its own arts centre, but the country can and must do the next best thing. Ireland like all her European partners, must have her own thriving, vibrant and indigenous regional arts centres. Sligo is the capital of this region, Sligo has the tradition and the indigenous material, Sligo is demonstrating the demand but above all, Sligo and the region has the need. Now id the time before the possible becomes the unthinkable and the opportunity no longer favourable", commented Mr. Liam Mc Kinney, when he led a deputation on behalf of "A Theatre For Sligo Founding Fund" at a meeting of Sligo Corporation on Monday night.
The deputation explained their Theatre for Sligo project fully to members of the Corporation who agreed to further discuss the matter at a later date. At the outset, Mr. Mc Kinney said Sligo was the natural capital of the North West region. In recent times it had become an accepted norm in industrial development that certain areas by their geographical location existing industries, community needs and demands had become industrial growth centres and these growth points had, in the main, been the regional centres of areas of certain indigenous qualities. He added, "So it is that we who have involved ourselves in this project over the past few years feel and indeed find support for our feelings in the publications of such powerful bodies as the United Nations, the EEC Commission for Social Affairs, the Arts Council in Britain and the Arts Council in Ireland - that what is true of industry in this respect is also true of the arts".
"Sligo has all the prerequisites of an artistic growth in tradition, regional location, demand and need. In the areas of public service and education, Sligo is the accepted regional capital. We think it should be the capital in the field f the arts as well". Sligo had already been designate a growth centre and it was projected that in the not too distant future the population would have doubled. The drive to attract substantial and sophisticated industry to Sligo had been imaginative and vigorous, but if the city was to keep its place in the national spread of things and to share fully in the material benefits of the future, this imaginative and vigorous approach had not only to be maintained but had to be enlarged upon, he added.
"The project we have embarked upon is of great importance to this city and we know that now is the time to ensure by our commitment to this project hat the correct balance between cultural and commercial development is ensured and enshrined in our articles of faith for Sligo. Nobody wants a one-sided city that is dull but rather one that is alive to all the aspirations of all its people - proud of its past, concerned with its present and committed with pride to its future. The building of a home to house Sligo's living theatre is a project worthy of the aspirations of our people and one that will be a source of pride to all", Mr. Mc Kinney went on. Speaking of the benefits of the project to tourism, Mr. Mc Kinney said that because of its connection with the Yeats family, Sligo had, for many people throughout the world, become a place of pilgrimage and these people in turn became great ambassadors for Sligo.
In the past six years, he revealed 15,000 people had seen productions by Sligo Drama Circle and it was estimated that the figure would be touching 20,000 by the end of this year. "How much more attractive and memorable for these people would their visits to us be if we could provide them with the opportunity to see in comfort, in a well appointed theatre of modern design and stage facilities, a play by Yeats or of the classic Irish theatre. Just as Siamsóiri na Riochta have in recent times become such an important force in Kerry and the south west, so Sligo Drama Circle and the living theatre in Sligo are becoming an equally important facet in Sligo and the North West", he continued. But it was to future generations the greatest benefits would accrue, he said. Educationalists the world over agreed that drama in its many and varied applications was of the utmost importance in child development.
For a number of years, Sligo Drama Circle members had been working closely with local schools in this field but without real theatre such work could only develop so far, for while it was of the highest importance, because of lack of fuller facilities it had to end with the school. "This is a great pity and in many ways I often think that what we are doing is akin to the bad old days when we were educating people for dead-end role in life with no follow up. In the theatre, we are proposing there must and always will be a place for this very important work and those of us who have initiated this project have pledged ourselves to this end. We are conscious that what we build now must be for all to enjoy and those who will run it, either now or in the future, must never be narrow or inward looking. They must always know that it was built for Sligo. Sligo Drama Circle is of its nature, reflective of the Sligo community - open to all who wish to work voluntarily in this form of artistic expression and that they may continue to be so, great pains have been taken in recent months to enshrine these principles in our articles of association - so that at no time can he theatre ever become the preserve of the privileged few or the frustration of the many", he went on.
Sligo Theatre, he added, was a living fact, but what was also a fact was that it was one of Sligo's bigger growing families without a home. "It is towards the ending of that state of affairs we have been addressing ourselves over the past few years and now for the first time in our history we address an appeal such as this for help. We make our appeal first to those whom we know have the true interests of Sligo and her people at heart and who by their leadership can ensure the success of this venture. Your leadership and example, like that displayed by Dublin City Council for a similar project, and the generous example set by His Lordship, the Bishop, in giving us a site, is the further act of faith which is needed to make this project a fact for all time. Our promise is that we will not fail that leadership and to ensure the steadfastness of our promise, we have gone to some considerable pains and expertise to set up the machinery and organisation where leadership such as yours can be most effective", Mr. Mc Kinney said.
While the theatre should be a fitting and and eloquent symbol of the the aspirations of the people of Sligo, it had also to be of a simple and fundamental character because of economic necessity. In that respect, they were deeply conscious that everyone's feet had to remain firmly planted on the ground at all times. In order to ensure that such was the case and to ensure that their energies were channelled along the most effective and objective course, Sligo Drama Circle had engaged the Wells Management Consultancy of London to advise them. A permanent theatre office had been established and a full time project director injected into the operation. Up to now, most of the time had been taken up in examining and setting up correctly constituted organisational structures. These structures were of great importance to the whole course of events, he concluded.
Drama Circle Criticised by Corporationfrom The Sligo Champion, May 7th, 1976 Sligo Drama Circle were bitterly attacked at Monday's meeting of Sligo Corporation, even though the body agreed to make a contribution towards the proposed theatre for Sligo. The Co. Manager said a meeting had been held with the Drama Circle regarding the Corporation's contribution and the figure of £25,000 had been mentioned. Cllr. J. Scanlon said he would object strongly to the Corporation making such a contribution to the Drama Circle. "We had a St. Patrick's Day Parade and the local Feiseanna and we did not receive one entry from them", he added. Ald. J. Fallon was another who didn't think the Drama Circle's request was a realistic one. "I have been trying to get things done for years and I can't get them. I am 100% behind making some contribution to the theatre, but I think £25,000 is a bit much", he said.
Ald Kay Guinane, who has been associated with the Drama Circle for many years, was also critical of their lack of support for local events. The Drama Circle competed in many competitions in towns throughout the country, but they never supported the local Feiseanna. It was pathetic in recent years because there was no co-operation from the Drama Circle at all. There was no doubt, the Drama Circle had contributed a lot to the Irish Theatre, but it was time they started supporting their local Feiseanna and the St. Patrick's Day Parade. "Three year's ago, I tried to get a float from the Drama Circle into the St. Patrick's Day Parade, and only two people turned up to give me a hand. There is complete apathy among them. I would say to them to look up what they can do for Sligo instead of looking to what Sligo can do for them", she remarked. She was in favour of establishing a theatre for Sligo but thought it would be better to erect a small theatre, perhaps as part of the proposed sports complex.
Cllr. Michael Carroll said the rate payers would be hit if the Corporation contributed to the theatre fund. They would already have contributed to the fund by supporting fund-raising events and it would not be the function of the Corporation to hit them again, he said. Deputy Ray Mc Sharry said he felt the Corporation should give the Drama Circle a commitment that they would make a contribution, but not say what amount they would be able to give. Cllr. Declan Bree said he thought the figure of £25,000 was taken out of context. He was aware that the Drama Circle were going to raise 83% of the cost themselves and any group that were prepared to raise that amount deserved to be supported.
Plain Sillyfrom The Sligo Champion, On the Line, by Seamus Finn, May 7th, 1976 The criticism levelled at Sligo Drama Circle at Monday night's meeting of Sligo Corporation is, to put it bluntly, plain silly. The meeting was considering a grant towards the Theatre for Sligo project - a figure of £25,000 was mentioned - when Cllr. John Scanlon said he objected strongly to such a contribution on the grounds that no entry was received from the Drama Circle either for this year's St. Patrick's Day Parade or for any of Sligo's feiseanna. Surprisingly, Ald. Kay Guinane, who for years has been associated with the Drama Circle, and who knows better than anyone the difficulties encountered by amateur dramatic groups, also joined in the fray. She said that while the group competed in many competitions in towns throughout the country, they never supported the local feiseanna. "It was pathetic in recent years because there was no co-operation at all", she alleged. She admitted the Circle had contributed a lot to Irish Theatre, but she said it was time they started supporting their local feiseanna and parade. And she added, "Three year's ago, I tried to get a float from the Drama Circle into the St. Patrick's Day Parade, and only two people turned up to give me a hand. There is complete apathy among them. I would say to them to look up what they can do for Sligo instead of looking to what Sligo can do for them.
Ald. Guinane said she was in favour of establishing a theatre for Sligo, but she thought it would be better to erect a small theatre, perhaps as part of the proposed sports complex. This was an astonishing suggestion in itself, in view of the fact that the Drama Circle already has a site for the proposed theatre, donated by the Bishop of Elphin, at the Retreat House. It isn't the first time that this business of the parade has been dragged into discussions at Sligo Corporation. In this case, the issue before the members had absolutely nothing to do with the parade; yet the clear implication is that the main yardstick by which civic-mindedness is judged is whether one participated in the parade. It should be clearly understood that the parade has no connection with Sligo Corporation, apart from the fact that the Mayor happens to be the Parade Committee's Chairman; that their meetings are held in the Council Chamber; and that several councillors are members.
Condemning the Drama Circle for not participating in the parade is as unworthy as it is illogical. The Circle over the years has done as much for Sligo - some people would say more - than any parade. For most of the year, at considerable inconvenience to themselves, its members provide badly needed theatre for the Sligo public. Season after season they continue to produce entertainment of a quality which few other provincial cities in this country can offer. Tourists, in particular, are constantly amazed by the standard, and very many of them write back expressing genuine appreciation. Incidentally, the Drama Circle does all this in the worst possible stage conditions - conditions which were described by Cllr. Scanlon at the same meeting as a scandal to the town. He pointed out that the stage was in a deplorable state in City Hall. The electrical fittings are highly dangerous, the drop scenes are in such a bad state they could not be used at the Feis, and the spot lamps are defective. To suggest, as Cllr. Guinane suggested, that the Drama Circle should look to what they can do for Sligo, instead of looking to what Sligo can do for them, is simply to ignore the facts.
Ald. Guinane and the Theatrefrom The Sligo Champion, On the Line, by Seamus Finn, May 14th, 1976 Ald. Kay Guinane writes, "In your article 'On the Line' (Champion 7th May) you described some of my remarks regarding a £25,000 grant of rate payers money to Sligo Drama Circle as being 'plain silly'. It would be far too easy for me, as a person who has been associated with drama in Sligo for over thirty years, to come out in full favour of any plan for the erection of a theatre in Sligo. But, as a member of the Corporation, I try to represent the views of as many people as possible. Is it so surprising that a member of the Corporation should question the worthiness of a group requesting £25,000 of rate payers' money? Would it not strike you as being 'plain silly' if this amount was handed over with nothing more said than words of praise?
Of course the Drama Circle has contributed greatly to the Irish Theatre movement (am I not a member myself!) and it both needs and deserves a properly equipped theatre. My criticism was not based alone on the fact that the Drama Circle has not supported local feiseanna and parades; it was far more constructive than that. I happen to see a very great need in this city for a sports complex such as was proposed to Sligo Corporation by the Junior Chamber of Commerce prior to the Drama Circle's project. In this I was extremely interested and on enquiry was informed that it would be possible to include a theatre in the general design. Such a project would have my full support and I feel sure that it would be welcomed by parents, teachers and above all by our young people, some of whom roam the streets bored to distraction and delinquency for the want of something to interest them.
Yet. Mr. Editor, you describe this suggestion of mine as 'astonishing' in view of the fact that the Drama Circle has already been donated a site by the Bishop. I can't help wondering what happened to the idea of homes for senior citizens which was at one time mooted for this site....... Sligo needs a sports complex. The Drama Circle needs a theatre. Taken separately, both of these projects would mean enormous financial involvement of the people of Sligo. This must surely mean that if one of these projects were to go ahead, it must be at the expense of the other, despite the fact that both would have a hope of survival if combined. Can anyone give me one good reason why one particular project should be sacrificed in favour of another, when both worthy projects could be combined quite favourably to the benefit of all concerned? I think that some of the answers could add up to 'plain sense'.
The Replyfrom The Sligo Champion, On the Line, by Seamus Finn, May 14th, 1976 Right then, first things first. Why weren't these objections raised on the night a deputation from the Drama Circle met a full meeting of Sligo Corporation and put their plan before the members? That, surely, would have been the proper time to voice reservations, 'question the worthiness' of the project, and, if it didn't meet with approval, produce an alternative. Why wait until now? Considerable work has gone into the planning of this project over a number of years, and especially in the past twelve months or so. It has received tremendous support and encouragement from all sections of the community, including Sligo Corporation itself. Indeed, if my information is correct, every encouragement was given by individual members of the Corporation during informal discussions with Drama Circle personnel, and as far as I know, not one protesting voice has been raised against it until last week.
An indication of the support which the project has received lies in the fact that one Sligo industrialist has pledged £5,000 in a single contribution from his company, plus a personal pledge of £500; many other pledges of substantial amounts of money have been received, some of them from people who do not even reside in Sligo; Most Rev. Dr. Dominic Conway, Bishop of Elphin, has donated a site at the Retreat House free of charge, and £20,000 will be forthcoming from the North West Regional Tourism Organisation, spread over a two or three year period. Very few, if any, local ventures have received such widespread financial support in the past. In fact, Tourism Manager, Mr. E. P. Hoy told me no later than this week that his organisation sees the theatre as a very important amenity in the context of an expanding Sligo. His organisation's financial contribution is based on what they think the value of a theatre will be to tourism in the area, and Mr. Hoy personally is hoping the Corporation's original commitment will be met in full.
As far as the Corporation's £25,000 grant is concerned, the amount would be spread over a period of five years, so that the burden on the rates which Ald. Guinane appears to be worried about will in no way be as severe as Ald. Guinane would have us believe. Everything considered, £5,000 per year for five years isn't an awful lot of money considering the project will cost something between £180,000 and £200,000. Would anybody suggest that a theatre would NOT be worth £5,000 a year to Sligo? For five years only! I doubt it. None of the money collected will be accepted until it has been proved beyond all doubt that the theatre venture is a viable proposition. Neither will a penny of the money go directly to the Drama Circle. - it will be handled by the Sligo Theatre Development Trust, the trustees being representative of the major contributors, including Sligo Corporation. The job of the trustees will be to see that their financial interest in the project will be fully protected at all times.
Despite what Ald. Guinane asserts, the cost of the theatre will be the same no matter where it is to be built - and the grant from Sligo Corporation will not change either - so there is nothing to be gained and everything to be lost by messing about with the site at this point. Building the theatre on the site of the proposed sports complex will neither diminish the cost nor simplify anything - in fact the reverse is the case. The Drama Circle already has a site for nothing; the Sports Complex Committee hasn't got one yet, and although they are examining two at present, nobody knows whether any of them will prove suitable, when land will be acquired or under what conditions. Quite apart from this crucial issue of the site, one has to ask would the Sports Committee welcome the additional problem of catering for a £200,000 theatre on their site. Ald. Guinane seems to imply that they would. My information is that they would not - and for a very sensible reason. They will have quite enough problems catering for the demands which will be made by a great number of existing sporting organisations in the area. The Sports Complex Committee is essentially concerned with providing sporting and recreational facilities - their lack of know-how and technical knowledge of the theatre would be a major drawback in the event that they were to become involved in the Drama Circle project.
A very different situation would arise if the project were to be tied in with the Sports Complex. Who, for instance, would decide on what gets priority? Would the site for the theatre be given free? If not, how much would it cost? Nobody would suggest that the sports complex will be built in the near future. In fact it is readily admitted by the Committee members themselves that a sports complex will not be seen in Sligo for a number of years. On the basis of cost alone, Ald. Guinane's argument doesn't hold water - for by taking its place in a long queue for inclusion in a sports complex, the cost of the theatre project would have soared - by the time the first stone was laid. By going ahead as quickly as possible under the present arrangement, the job should be done much quicker and much cheaper. If it isn't, that will be for the Drama Circle to worry about. Ald. Guinane says she cannot help wondering what happened to the idea of homes for senior citizens which was at one time mooted for the present theatre site. Ald. Guinane is long enough in public life now to know that many ideas are mooted, but that's as far as most of them ever get. I can recall an idea for a League of Decency being mooted in Sligo, but it seems to have gone the way of several other 'mooted' ideas!
Finally, let me dispel once and for all any implication, intended or not, that the theatre, when it is built, will be for the exclusive use of the members of the Drama Circle. Any local or visiting groups which would require a stage or a hall for the presentation of their work will have use of the new theatre. This includes Sligo Feiseanna, Tops of the Town, operatic societies, variety concerts and so on. The theatre will also be available for major conferences - an important item in itself because of the amount of business such conferences generate in a town. In short, the theatre will be a facility for the people of Sligo - not for the members of the Drama Circle who, in this instance, are acting merely in the capacity of a building agency.
More on the Theatrefrom The Sligo Champion, On the Line, by Seamus Finn, May 21st, 1976 Ald Kay Guinane writes: "With reference to your reply to my remarks regarding the Corporation grant of £25,000 towards the Theatre for Sligo, there are a few points to clarify. Firstly, you ask "Why wait until now?" to raise objections regarding the theatre project. You ask why they were not raised on the night the Drama Circle's deputation presented its plan to the Corporation. The answer is simple. On that occasion, the Corporation did not have the power to give them a grant, large or small. No public money was involved, no sum was mentioned and no questions were asked, at least not by me. Legal advice had to be sought regarding the granting of public money for such a project and the first I heard of the grant was when a friend remarked: "I hear the Drama Circle are getting £25,000 from the Corporation". That was one week before the Corporation meeting of May 3rd.
It appeared on the agenda that night as "Contribution towards proposed Theatre for Sligo" and the figure mentioned at the meeting was £25,000. It was then I voiced my objections. I hope this answers your question, "Why wait until now?" Secondly, at no time did I ever suggest the building of the £200,000 theatre on the site of the proposed Sports Complex. I wish to make that clear especially to the Sports Complex Committee. (I am surely not that bankrupt in brains) The words I used in that connection (and which were reported in an earlier edition of the "Champion") were "incorporated in", meaning a type of theatre such as we have in at last four of our educational establishments. Failing this, perhaps the purchase and renovation of an existing building would serve the purpose but definitely an edifice of modest proportion and costs which would be well equipped and capable of seating upwards of 250 to 300 people. With this purpose in mind we had a little bank account of about £5,000.
Let's be realistic, Sligo cannot boast that it has a large theatre-going public. Limerick Theatre is up for sale - a city that has an all the year round flow of international visitors. At a time when our economy is at its lowest ebb, does not the mind boggle at the building of a theatre costing £200,000? Yet you say it has received "tremendous support and encouragement from all sections of the community" (Alma Terrace ratepayers included?). "The cost of the theatre will be the same and the grant from Sligo Corporation will not change either" you say. That being so, I'll conclude with the words of William Shakespeare: "The rest is silence". Let us hope so.
Theatre Plan - A Dream Come Truefrom The Sligo Champion, May 4th, 1979 The great "Theatre for Sligo" dream is about to become a reality, thanks to the Donegal-Leitrim-Sligo Tourism Organisation who this week announced plans for a major drama centre at Temple Street, Sligo. Making the announcement at the AGM of the Donegal-Leitrim-Sligo Tourism Organisation on Monday Chairman, Mr. Seán O' Connell said the board had taken a decision to build a new tourism centre in Sligo and negotiations on the acquisition of a site at Temple Street had now been concluded. "The centre is being designed primarily to meet the needs of the visitor and it is intended also to develop an auditorium for theatrical productions principally involving the Sligo Drama Circle", Mr. O' Connell explained. He added that the auditorium would also be suitable for conferences, workshops and exhibitions. The Chairman revealed that the project would be initiated in 1979 and that an allocation had been made available by Bord Fáilte towards the cost of the project in the current year.
"It is estimated that the centre will be operational by summer 1980, and we are confident that the desired level of funding will be raised to complete the project to the standards required", said Mr. O' Connell. Yesterday, a delighted Mr. Liam Mc Kinney, Chairman of Sligo Drama Circle, said his group were extremely pleased to be part of this major breakthrough for Sligo. "This city has a long and rich tradition of theatre that is nationally and internationally respected. In order that this reputation be maintained and enhanced in modern times, a proper home for theatrical activity had become an evident necessity", he said. "We are deeply conscious that we are the inheritors of this facility and many other riches toiled for by great people and groups in the past in Sligo. Many people have to be thanked and the best way we can do that is by presenting theatre entertainment to the highest quality in the new centre", Mr. Mc Kinney added.
The new centre will, we understand, be fully equipped with up to 300 seats and will be similar in size to the Lyric Theatre in Belfast. The Tourist Board's announcement brings to an end a ten year struggle by Sligo Drama Circle for a local theatre. Over the last decade the local drama group had campaigned vigorously for a theatre, and although no money had been collected many pledges were given during that time.
Retreat House Most Suitable Site For New Theatrefrom The Western Journal, by Marese Mc Donagh, February 15th, 1980 Sligo Drama Circle are not unduly worried about recent objections to the proposed new tourism centre which is to incorporate a modern day theatre. "Planning permission has already been granted", said Mr. Liam Mc Kinney, President of the Drama Circle, "and while I respect the right of people to object, I don't think anyone could suggest a more suitable location". At a recent Corporation meeting two councillors objected to the tourism centre (the first of its kind in the country) being built in the grounds of the Retreat House which they say would have made an ideal public park for the people of Sligo. This piece of land was made available to the Drama Circle by the Bishop of Elphin, Most Rev. Dr. Conway. Another reason for the objections given by Councillor Eugene Henry is that he believes the building would be a steel fabricated structure which wouldn't fit in with the other buildings of "high architectural value in the area". Mr. Mc Kinney, however, denies this saying that the architectural standard of the new building is high.
The Drama Circle are looking forward to having better facilities in town as the absence of a comfortable theatre has been a big drawback to date. "Can you imagine anyone wanting to leave the comfort of their own sitting rooms to sit on hard chairs in a hall where there is no heating?" asks Mr. Mc Kinney. And while he is not criticising the Town Hall which "wasn't built to be a theatre", Mr. Mc Kinney does feel that there would be a big improvement in audiences if more comfortable facilities were provided. There is no doubt in Mr. Mc Kinney's mind as to whether Sligo can support a theatre. "There is no question about it", he says. "We have a great tradition of drama in this town". Apart from the fact that audiences will be more inclined to support productions in a modern theatre, there would be other advantages.
"Adaptability would be one of the main advantages", says Liam. "We could do some experimental theatre which we wouldn't dare do now. We could also become more involved in youth theatre. The equipment and the lighting systems would also be a great blessing. Although the audience never think of these things, it is no fun dragging a five ton set up two flights of stairs". Some people with no interest in drama might argue that there isn't enough interest to warrant the cost of a theatre in Sligo but says Liam: "Admittedly, audiences are very peculiar. While there is a massive interest in musicals and light entertainment - "Fiddler on the Roof" and "The Boyfriend" were sellouts - legitimate theatre is not as popular. However, we do have a steady audience who come consistently to the more serious productions".Again, Liam says that the reason serious drama isn't as popular is that "the mind will take only what the arse will endure", in other words people can't concentrate on these plays unless they are in comfortable surroundings.
The Sligo Drama Circle was founded in '56 and their last production "The Boyfriend" was their 90th production. They won the All-Ireland Drama Finals in 1970 with their production of "A Streetcar Named Desire" and they have come second six times, and third twice, in this competition. They will be the first drama group in Ireland to assume responsibility of an indigenous theatre and as Liam says: "This theatre group will be to the North-West what the Abbey was to Ireland".
Sligo To have £¼m Theatre By Next Summerfrom The Western Journal, by Jim Gray, September 26th, 1980 A plan to establish a quarter million pounds theatre/conference centre in Sligo by the end of next summer is likely to get the "green light" from Sligo Corporation at a special meeting on Monday next. A total of £206,000 has already been committed for the project by the Arts Council and Tourism Organisation interest, and a request by Donegal/Leitrim/Sligo Tourism for a Local Authority contribution of the shortfall of £55,000 is likely to be accepted by the elected representatives at the earliest opportunity. The Corporation is due to meet next week to review the workings of the past year. but already Mayor, Tony Mc Loughlin and former Mayor, Ald. Seán Mc Manus have tabled a motion asking that Standing Orders be suspended so that members can discuss the Theatre Project on Monday.
County Manager, Mr. Paul Byrne, has already recommended to members that they provide the required £55,000 and it's confidently expected that there will be unanimous agreement from the councillors. The theatre which will be the first custom-built in this country since the construction of the Abbey Theatre in Dublin in the late sixties, will be one of the most modern in the country. It will be situated at the Retreat House grounds, where site work is already well advanced. It's expected that the conference centre will add in the region of £300,000 to £400,000 to Sligo's economy annually. The Arts Council has already committed £85,000 to the project, while a sum of £121,000 has been committed by tourism sources. New regional tourism offices will be incorporated in the complex.
It is expected that if the Corporation agree to contribute £55,000 it will be raised from rates over the next ten years. The Tourism Organisation has offered the Corporation three seats on a nine-member Board of Directors to be set up to control the centre. Welcoming the development yesterday, Mayor, Tony Mc Loughlin, said he would be urging his colleagues to support the venture. He tabled a motion asking for the matter to be discussed on Monday because he believes the Corporation should waste no time in giving the project their unanimous approval. "£55,000 might seem like a lot of money, but over ten years, it's just over £5,000 a year. I can't see members of the Corporation turning down a chance to establish a theatre and conference centre for the sake of £5,000 a year", he said.
Cllr. Mc Loughlin said the value of a theatre and conference centre in Sligo couldn't be over emphasised. "It will create employment, it will boost our local economy, and it will make us the cultural centre of the North West. It's a once in a lifetime opportunity and I'll certainly be giving it my full support", he said. The Mayor's enthusiasm for the project was shared by his fellow members contacted over the weekend. Ald. Mc Manus said it was an opportunity not to be missed. "As elected representatives of the public, we're in the business of development and progress and it's our duty to provide for he people of Sligo. If we don't take this opportunity, somebody else will. Seventy nine per cent of the total cost has already been committed. I'm sure Sligo Corporation will not be found wanting for the shortfall", he said.
Cllr. Michael Carroll who had earlier objected to the site for the centre, confirmed that he, too, will be supporting the request for financial assistance. "I still have some reservations about the site, but anybody who would not see this project as a positive step forward would be a fool. I am particularly pleased for Sligo Drama Circle, who have kept drama alive in the town without adequate facilities for so long. They, more than any other group, deserve this sort of development", said Cllr. Carroll.
Ald. Pat Curley, who recently headed the campaign for financial assistance for the Sports Complex, told us he would be equally committed to supporting the theatre plan. "Sligo has an important theatre tradition and I'm surprised that it's taken so long to have a proper theatre established. It's a leisure-type pursuit, and in that way, it has an important role to play both now and in the future. For that reason, and for many others, I will be giving it my full support", said Ald. Curley.
Cllr. Bill Monaghan will also be voting in favour of making the money available. "A theatre for Sligo was one of the points I raised during my election campaign, so I'm naturally delighted to see it's now almost a reality. There's tremendous talent in Sligo that has not had the opportunity for development and a modern theatre would solve that problem. I feel the financial assistance we are being requested to make available is very small in comparison to the amounts already made available for the project", he said.
Corpo Asked To Contribute £55,000 For New Theatrefrom The Western Journal, by Jim Gray, September 26th, 1980 Sligo Corporation has been asked to contribute £55,000 towards the cost of providing a new tourism centre for Sligo, incorporating a theatre and conference facility. The request has come from Donegal/Leitrim/Sligo Tourism Organisation, who have already secured financial commitments from the Arts Council and tourism sources to the tune of £206,000. The overall project is estimated to cost £261,000 and the Tourism Organisation's request to the Corporation for the shortfall of £55,000 is likely to be favourably received. In fact County Manager, Mr. Paul Byrne, in a letter to members of the Corporation, has recommended that they agree to provide the money under the Arts Act 1973. "The Corporation is empowered under the Arts Act 1973 to contribute to a project of this nature, and in view of the benefit which will accrue to the citizens of Sligo in social, cultural, tourist and economic terms by the provision of such a facility, and that such benefit can be achieved for a contribution of little over a fifth of the total cost, I am recommending to the members that they agree to provide £55,000 towards the cost, and that this sum be raised by way of rates over a ten year period", the Manager said.
It is not certain, of course, that the members will agree to the Manager's recommendation, but with such widespread public support for the project, it is unlikely that there will be much opposition from public representatives. It is envisaged that the theatre will have a seating capacity for 328 persons, and if built, it would provide Sligo with the first custom-built theatre since the construction of the Abbey Theatre in Dublin in the early sixties. It will also provide badly needed conference facilities for Sligo and the surrounding region. It is intended that the operation of the facility will be placed in the hands of a special company and that the Board of such a company would have equal representation from the Arts Council, the Corporation and Tourism interests. It is likely, therefore, that on a nine-member Board, Sligo Corporation would have three seats.
In a lengthy submission to the Corporation the Tourism Organisation points out the advantages of a theatre conference facility for Sligo, not the least of which would be to make Sligo a more competitive centre as a large conference location. The Tourism Organisation estimates an income from tourism in this way of between £250,000 and £300,000. They estimate, too, that the theatre could provide the people of Sligo and its visitors with fifty two weeks of professional and amateur cultural activity of the highest standard. Sligo Drama Circle, of course, would provide much of this material, but it is also envisaged that the local Feiseanna, choral recitals, orchestral performances, literary evenings, variety shows, and educational workshops together with conferences, would all be held at the theatre.
The theatre would be one of the most modern in the country, making Sligo the cultural capital of the Western seaboard. "The provision of a modern and fully-equipped theatre, professionally and efficiently run, can only enhance Sligo's image and reputation in fostering a place for the arts. Such a facility will provide a cultural outlet for all time, and in that way an opportunity to foster the cultural expression of Sligo's past, present and future will be guaranteed", said the Tourism Organisation's submission. Detailing the benefits of the theatre conference facility to tourism the Organisation says, "In terms of a contribution to the local economy, we can confidently predict that the project will contribute in a major way towards increasing tourism revenue. Specifically, in terms of overnights we would be aiming to attract a minimum of an additional 15,000 to 20,000 overnights to the city in co-operation with all interests which would result in a minimum contribution to the local economy of between £300,000 and £400,000 annually".
The Tourism organisation also believes that the addition of a major cultural/conference centre to the already well established development base of Sligo will enhance the town's attractiveness as an industrial centre. "The theatre will underline Sligo's growing status as a major regional centre possessing a cultural amenity in keeping with its status. This will be of interest to industrialists considering Sligo as a location for investment and could help convince them that Sligo is the right location for their investment", they maintain. They also expect the theatre to make a major impact in cultural and educational activities. The Arts Council has already committed a sum of £85,000 to the project while £121,000 will come from tourism sources. It is hoped to have the project completed by mid-summer 1981.
What The Interested Parties Sayfrom The Western Journal, September 26th, 1980 Sligo Hoteliers Association: "Undoubtedly, the establishment of this major project will create worthwhile opportunities for all of us involved in tourism and as an Association we look forward to playing our part in utilising these facilities to increase tourism revenue in our area and in that way advance the prosperity of Sligo and its environs"
Eamon Howley, Regional Manager, IDA: "From my point of view, the establishment of the theatre will underline Sligo's growing status as a major regional centre, possessing a cultural amenity in keeping with this status. This will be of interest to industrialists considering Sligo as a location for investment, and could help convince them that Sligo is the right place for their investment".
Sligo County Development Team: "We believe that the provision of a Theatre/Conference Centre would have a very positive result in terms of economic growth and would provide a valuable aid to the promotion of Sligo as a major tourism centre. The service sector will assume an increasing importance in coming years in terms of job creation and contribution to growth in this county. With so many natural attractions to offer Sligo is very well placed to benefit from cultural and conference type business if a suitable modern building was available and we would strongly support and commend any efforts to provide it.
"As you are fully aware Sligo Drama Circle has over the last 25 years established itself both competitively and at home as a cultural force with standing and respect. For much of this time and following our experience in Visitor Entertainment we have felt the need for a theatre facility equal to our standing and that of the town. The realisation of this ambition would present our group with opportunities in range and scope which will at once be fulfilling and challenging".
Major Theatre Plan for Sligo Gets the Go-Aheadfrom The Sligo Champion, October 3rd, 1980 Sligo Corporation has given the go ahead to a massive tourism and theatre complex at Temple Street, and work on what is expected to be one of the most modern developments of its kind in the country will start next year. At a special meeting on Monday night, the Corporation agreed to contribute £55,000 to the project - the overall cost of which will be in the region of £291,000. The complex - which will contain a 330 seat theatre and conference centre as well as a modern tourism office - will also be funded by the Arts Council and the Donegal/Leitrim/Sligo Tourism Organisation. Although the proposal received enthusiastic support from the Corporation, there was just a hint of discord when two members - Cllr. Declan Bree and Tommy Doyle - demanded that the Corporation have at least 50% membership of the Board of Directors to be set up to run the new centre.
Eventually the matter was resolved when members adopted the Co. Manager's proposal on the project, which made provision for the Corporation to have three representatives on a nine-man Board. At the outset, Mayor, Cllr. Tony Mc Loughlin, proposed that the Corporation provide £55,000 to the cost of the project and this was seconded by Alderman Seán Mc Manus. Ald. Mc Manus described the proposal as a wonderful project. He said the development of the complex would provide facilities in Sligo which had been lacking for the past number of years. He pointed out that the Corporation were proposing to make a contribution of £55,000 which was just one fifth of the cost. In return, they would have one third membership of the Board of Directors and he was satisfied with this arrangement.
He felt it was a very fine project and said the Corporation should not let an opportunity of getting such a complex pass. Sligo was fast becoming a very important conference centre and the development of this complex would make it one of the best centres in the country. The plans also made provision for a theatre and this was something that had been very badly missing in Sligo. The provision of the theatre was to be very much welcomed, he said. Ald. Mc Manus congratulated everybody connected with the project, particularly Regional Tourism Manager, Mr. Brian Reddan.
Welcoming the plan, Ald. Tommy Higgins said he was particularly pleased that Sligo Drama Circle would at last have a theatre worthy of them. The Corporation had made many promises to the Drama Circle down the years but, unfortunately, nothing ever happened. Now they had the chance to assist in the provision of a theatre and he felt this was a wonderful thing. Ald. Higgins also emphasised the great advantage of having a modern conference centre in the town and he was sure such a facility would help Sligo attract many major conferences. "we should jump at the opportunity to get this facility but if we don't act quickly somebody else will move in and the project could be lost to Sligo", Ald. Higgins warned.
Ald. John Harrison said he believed the provision of the centre would be a tremendous asset as far as the youth of the town were concerned. Sligo had a marvellous tradition as far as cultural entertainment was concerned but, because of the lack of suitable facilities, it was feared that this tradition was being neglected. He knew that this was not entirely true and he was sure that the genuine talent of the people of Sligo would be fostered even further by the provision of a theatre. "This will not be a white elephant. This is something that will benefit every section of the community and I feel any money we contribute will be an investment in the future of our youth and I am all in favour of it", Ald. Harrison said.
Cllr. Declan Bree said he fully supported the theatre project and was particularly happy that the Sligo Drama Circle would at least have a home. He recalled that the Drama Circle had approached the last Corporation for financial assistance but the former Co. Manager said the Corporation were not in a position to give such support because of the conditions of the Arts Act. Now the situation had apparently changed and he was delighted that money was now available for the project. "However, I have some reservations about our membership of the Board of Directors", Cllr. Bree went on. "I discussed the matter with Mr. Reddan and he understood my views. As far as I'm concerned, the situation is similar to the Airport Committee because public funds are being used. Two thirds of the Board of Directors of the new Centre will be from the private sector while only one third will represent the public representatives. Yet, all of the money for the project will come from the public sector. I believe that we should have at least 50% membership of the Board because we have a duty to the people of Sligo to protect their interests", he said.
Ald. Mc Manus said he did not agree that the situation regarding the Tourism Centre was the same as the airport. It should be remembered, he said, that the Tourism Organisation consisted of representatives of Sligo Corporation and Sligo County Council as well as Local Authority representatives from Leitrim and Donegal. He was sure these people would protect the interests of the public.
Cllr. B. Monaghan said he fully supported the project. He was delighted that Sligo was at last to have a theatre and said all concerned with the venture deserved to be congratulated. Cllr. Kay Mc Goldrick added her support to the proposal, stating that the facilities provided in the centre were very badly needed in Sligo. Cllr. Michael Carroll said he would like to support the project on "behalf of the people of Sligo and their children who will benefit in the years to come". Sligo had a marvellous tradition in drama and entertainment. This tradition had been carried on down through the years and there was no telling what stardom lay ahead for local people now that they would have the benefit of their own theatre. Everybody was concerned about the lack of facilities in Sligo and what better way was there to combat this problem than by providing a theatre. Cllr. Carroll said he expressed some reservations about the siting of the theatre because he felt it would cause traffic congestion. Cllr. Henry also felt the same way and he hoped they would be proven wrong.
"We were elected to represent the people of Sligo and I am sure they would feel that our contribution to this project would be a very wise investment", said Cllr. Carroll. "We now have plans for a Sports Complex, a tourism centre and are involved in Town Twinning. That is a great way to start the new decade", he added. Supporting the plan, Cllr. S. Mc Donagh said the provision of a theatre would be just reward for the people who had worked so hard as far as drama was concerned down through the years. He mentioned particularly the late Mr. Tom Palmer, Editor of "The Sligo Champion", who had campaigned so hard for a theatre in Sligo. Cllr. Tommy Doyle said he supported the project but wouldn't like to create the impression that it was just for one section of te community. He also pointed out that the Corporation could, "at the drop of a hat", make £55,000 available for this project at a time when they should be pressing ahead with other important issues.
The County Manager said he was delighted that the Tourism Centre had met with such a favourable reaction from the Councillors. He complimented the work of Mr. Brian Reddan, Regional Tourism Manager, and the Arts Council, and said the commitment of these bodies was such that the Corporation only had to contribute 21% of the overall cost. He appreciated the points made by Cllr. Bree but felt it was worthwhile pointing out that the people on the Regional Tourism Organisation and the Arts Council were responsible to the Government and to various Departments as to how the money was spent. The Mayor, Cllr. Mc Loughlin, said he felt the Corporation had taken a very positive step by supporting the proposal. He said the Sligo Drama Circle and the Regional Tourism Organisation deserved the height of praise for the work they had put into the project.
At this stage, Cllr. Bree repeated that he felt the Corporation should have at least 50% membership of the Board of Directors. He pointed out while the Corporation were only contributing 21%, the entire cost of the project was coming from public funds and, therefore the Corporation, as representatives of the public, should have greater representation on the Board of Directors. "There are approximately five representatives from Local Authorities on the Tourism Organisation and the majority of members are elected from the floor at the Organisation's annual meeting. Anybody willing to pay £5 can become a member", Cllr. Bree went on.
"I feel very strongly about this matter. We go out before the people every five years and if we don't represent them as we should we will get our walking cards at the next local elections. Yet we are not allowed to represent the people who elect us on a Board where anybody who has £5 can be elected. I recall that when we went to some of these people for a contribution for the Christmas lights, they couldn't assist us. I have no objection whatsoever to the project and I propose we make a contribution providing we get at least 50% of the membership on the Board of Directors", he concluded. Cllr. Bree's proposal was seconded by Cllr. Tommy Doyle.
Ald. Mc Manus again pointed out that the situation regarding the new tourism centre wasn't the same as the airport issue. He said he had no fears whatsoever and he was confident the people elected to the Board would safeguard the interests of the people of Sligo. Cllr. Doyle said he was in favour of the theatre project but he didn't want it to become "Tuxedo Boulevard" and for that reason he felt the Corporation should have greater representation on the Board of Directors so that the theatre would always remain a citizen's theatre. Ald. Harrison said it was worth remembering that the Tourism Organisation and the Arts Council didn't have to put their proposals before the Corporation. They could have gone ahead and raised the money themselves but they gave the Corporation the option of making a contribution to a very worthwhile project. "As far as I'm concerned I will have every confidence in the people who will be elected to the Board. I am sure that the majority of them will be local people", he added. Cllr. Carroll said he had already made it clear that he was supporting the project on behalf of the people of Sligo. If, as had been suggested, the project was only for one section of the community, he would still have no hesitation in supporting it because, as a public representative, he felt that he had a duty to support a section of the community as he had to assist the majority.
"We represent the public but that doesn't mean that we should demand membership on every board in the county. There will be enlightened people on the Board of the new centre; people who will have the expertise to do what is necessary", said Cllr. Carroll. "After many years of trying we are now, through the good work of Mr. Reddan, on the brink of having a theatre for Sligo and the project should receive every encouragement. As far as percentages go , there are only twelve members on the Corporation who are representing 17,000 people. And when we are talking about drama, let us not forget that there are no better actors than public representatives", he added.
Cllr. Bree pointed out that the project couldn't go ahead without the support of the Corporation. Dealing with Corporation membership on the Board of the Tourism Organisation, Cllr. Bree charged that the Corporation never got any feedback from their representatives and he felt there wasn't much point in having representatives on the tourism body if nobody knew what was going on. "One speaker here has already said that he would have the greatest confidence in the people who would be elected but I cannot have confidence in the Board until I know who is going to be on it", Cllr. Bree said.
Ald Higgins said he agreed with a lot of what Cllr. Bree said. However, the Corporation would have three members on a nine-man board and he felt that was reasonable. Cllr Bree - "I feel very strongly about this and I make no apologies for making my views known".
At this stage, Ald. Mc Manus proposed that the Manager's recommendations be accepted in full and, after a vote, this was agreed. The voting went as follows - For accepting the proposals: Ald. S. Mc Manus, T. Higgins, J. Harrison, Cllrs. Tony Mc Loughlin, S. Mc Donagh, B. Monaghan, M. Carroll, K. Mc Goldrick; Against: Cllrs. Declan Bree and T. Doyle. Ald. Pat Curley and Cllr. Eugene Henry were absent from the meeting. Cllrs. Bree and Doyle made it clear that they were not in any way opposed to the Tourism Centre plan, although they did feel that the Corporation should have more members on the Board of Directors.
President To Open Sligo's New Theatrefrom The Sligo Champion, December 25th, 1981 The Hawk's Well Theatre, which will be officially opened by An tUachtarán Dr. P. J. Hillery on Tuesday 12th January 1982 at 6.45pm, has the distinction of being the first purpose-built theatre west of the Shannon. Built at a cost of a quarter of a million pounds, the Hawk's Well is centrally located in Temple Street, Sligo, alongside the new Tourist Office of the Donegal Leitrim Sligo Tourism Organisation.
The dream of a theatre for Sligo was first germinated in the early seventies by a local amateur drama group, the Sligo Drama Circle. This dream has become a reality through the initiative of the Regional Tourism Organisation which achieved the financial backing to build the theatre. The project marks the first occasion on which the two national agencies - the Arts Council and Bord Fáilte - combined with a local authority - Sligo Corporation - to provide the capital funds for a new arts facility.
On the opening night, the programme will highlight the depth of artistic talent in the West of Ireland. Said a spokesman: "We consider it appropriate that Druid - the only professional theatre company in the West - will present their new production of Shakespeare's classic comedy "Much Ado About Nothing". The location of the play has been transferred to a provincial garrison town in Ireland in the 1800's. We are honoured to present this company whom many will recall from their prestigious Edinburgh Festival win some years ago". Specifically for the opening night, Sligo's performing acts will be represented by Sligo Drama Circle, Choral Society and CCE.
Sligo Drama Circle are the group whose energy initially focussed public attention on the need and desire for a Sligo Theatre. They will present "The Cat and the Moon" by W. B. Yeats. The Drama Circle recently celebrated their 25th anniversary, and, without a doubt, the opening of the Hawk's Well will be the best birthday present they could have wished for. Providing the musical section of the night's programme will be the Sligo Choral Society - a long established 55 strong choir, and the night will be rounded off by the best of traditional music from the Comhaltas Ceoltóiri Éireann Sligo Branch.
The Hawk's Well, with a capacity of up to 300 patrons, has all the modern facilities which will ensure comfort for both actors and audience, and is fully equipped technically. The year round programme will include both local amateur and national professional drama, music, film and small exhibitions. It will also be available as a conference venue. Most of the seats incorporate built-in fold-away writing tablets. The principals in the building project decided to form an independent company to run the theatre which has taken up a lease on the building for a long term at a peppercorn rent.
They nominated three persons each to serve on the Board of the Hawk's Well Theatre Company and these are: Mr. Paul Byrne (County Manager) Chairman; Ald. Seán Nc Manus; Cllr. Declan Bree; Kevin Flynn (Music Promoter); Prof Thomas Kilroy (Playwright); Lionel Gallagher (Sligo Drama Circle); Brian Reddan (Regional Tourism Manager); Jim Gannon (Vice-Chairman Regional Tourism Organisation); and Joe Meehan (Sligo Drama Circle). The name of the theatre was chosen because of the Yeats-Sligo connection, and has as its inspiration one of his plays, "At the Hawk's Well", (a legend about the spirit of a well which many believe is situated in Sligo on the Ox Mountains).
The Hawk's Well Theatre will be run on a break-even basis, but for the initial period, both Sligo Corporation and the Arts Council have allocated some amounts of grant-against-loss aid, though it is hoped it will not be necessary to draw on this. The Manager/Artistic Director, Rhoda Mac Manus, comes to the Hawk's Well with ten years experience in the arts. Previously she worked at the Wexford Arts Centre, where she initiated an innovative community arts scheme in dance and visual art, covering the south-east region, and before that she administered a touring theatre company, Highway Shoes, who were based at Chapter Arts Centre in Cardiff, Wales. Her apprenticeship was served for over four years in Ireland's first arts centre, the Project, in her native city of Dublin.
The Druid Company's "Much Ado About Nothing" will open to the public on Wednesday 13th January, and will run nightly at 8pm until Saturday 16th. The box-office will be open for booking from Monday 4th January (Daily 11.00 to 1.00pm and 2.00 to 7.00pm). As it is envisaged that interest in the newly opened theatre will ensure capacity audiences, patrons are advised to book early.
New Theatre Will Be Opened By Presidentfrom The Sligo Champion, January 8th, 1982 Sligo's new £¼m. theatre, The Hawk's Well Theatre, will be officially opened on Tuesday next by the President of Ireland, Dr. P. J. Hillery. The opening marks the end of years of concerted endeavours by local organisations, particularly Sligo Drama Circle, and the theatre project represents the first occasion on which two national agencies, The Arts Council and Bord Fáilte, combined with Sligo Corporation, to provide funds for a new arts facility. Appropriately, Sligo talent will figure prominently in the opening night's programme with Sligo Drama Circle, Sligo Choral Society and the local branch of Comhaltas Ceoltóiri Éireann all making contributions. The feature of the programme, however, is the Druid Theatre Company's production of Shakespeare's classic comedy "Much Ado About Nothing".
Sligo's New Theatre Opened By Presidentfrom The Sligo Champion, January 15th, 1982 "This is a significant occasion not only for Sligo, but for all Ireland", stated the President, Dr. Patrick Hillery, when he performed the official opening of Sligo's Hawk's Well Theatre. "It is not often in the world in which we live that we hear of the opening of new theatres", he continued. "You have set a worthy headline here. May your good example be followed by other towns and districts all over Ireland".
An aura of strange magic and mystery surrounded the name "The Hawk's Well" which had been selected for this magnificent building, he said. Its very sound suggested furtive glances into that lost world of the past which so gripped the imagination of Ireland's greatest poet, whose own superb achievement was forever inseparably entwined with the Sligo that he loved. Yeats - poet, playwright, philosopher and public man owed much to Sligo. With song, story, lore and legend, this part of Ireland enriched his consciousness and inspired his dreams. From that consciousness and the poet's dreams came outstanding art which repaid the singular generosity of Sligo and its people a hundred thousandfold.
Yeats was much in love with Sligo, with its lore-lade hills, its lakes, streams, quiet ways and silent places. Above all, he was deeply attached to its people with their natural and unspoilt gift for speech and drama. Often, when far removed from the sight of Ben Bulben and Knocknarea, he remembered those amongst whom he had grown up and expressed heartfelt longing to be back. Sligo well deserved such a fine home for the arts as it had in the new theatre, for it had held a distinguished place in the arts. A theatre of its own had been for many years the dream of many for this old and historic town. But not even "the entire fairy host of Knocknarea" could by magic bring a dream to fulfilment. That demanded determination, dedication, self-confidence and spirit which a worthwhile cause could always inspire.
All of these had been displayed in rich abundance. The Hawk's Well Theatre was a dream fulfilled for Sligo, and he congratulated most warmly all the selfless people, the organisations, but voluntary and official, and the authorities and agencies, local and national, whose combined endeavours had made this opening such a cause for celebrations. The many-talented Yeats would have been proud that a work of his had given its name to the theatre. He would also have been proud of the magnificent setting, and immeasurably proud of Sligo for showing the way where others might follow.
Mr. Seán O' Connell, Chairman, Donegal/Leitrim/Sligo Tourism, said it was his organisation's hope that the Hawk's Well Theatre would become a focal point in the tourism industry and that, in conjunction with the local trade, tourism would package, promote and sell entertainment linked to accommodation and so establish Sligo and this region as a mandatory destination for visitors to this country. He said entertainment was an integral part of tourism and so it was most appropriate to see this new theatre situated side by side with the regional headquarters. He hoped it was symbolic of the close co-operation and association between the two companies as they grew in the years ahead. When the new tourism centre was formally opened six weeks ago, it was just the first phase of a £½m development which was conceived and initiated by the tourism organisation. The opening of the theatre saw the completion of the final phase of the plan.
Mr. O' Connell said it was hoped to attract small confederate and business groups from overseas for numbers of up to three hundred people, and already, Aer Lingus in New York had indicated their interest in the project following the visit to Sligo of their Sligo-born manager for New England, Mr. Colm Mc Morrow. Aer Lingus Conference and Incentive Sales Manager in North America, Mrs. Ann Tolan Murray, another native of Sligo, had also expressed great enthusiasm for the project. "I hope this amenity will be fully appreciated by the people of this area, apart altogether from the enjoyment it will provide to our visitors", said Mr. O' Connell.
Bord Fáilte and the Regional Tourism Organisation shared a common objective which was to enable the people of Ireland to benefit from the promotion and development of tourism. This objective specifically took account of the quality of life and development of the community. "This facility had been provided by the communal and joint support of the Arts Council and Sligo Corporation in conjunction with Bord Fáilte and our company. We are indebted to them for their support and commitment. With Sligo's tradition of interest in theatre and the performing arts, I have no doubt hat the Hawk's Well Theatre will become a forum of enjoyment and entertainment for all who come and that it will herald a new era in tourism for Sligo and this region", said Mr. O' Connell.
The Mayor, Cllr. Eugene Henry, said the official opening of the purpose built theatre, the first of its kind this side of the Shannon, at a quite substantial sum of a quarter of a million pounds, was an acknowledgement of the richness of the many arts in Sligo and Connacht. It was the fulfilment of the dreams of many artists - people like Jim Wynne, Alfie Rochford, Joe Burns, Charlie Hughes and the one and only Margaret Hughes who formed the "Unknown Players", a group that brought many honours to Sligo. Sligo Drama Circle had been founded in 1956 to promote higher standards in local drama and to increase the range of plays to Sligo audiences. Since then, the Drama Circle had produced plays by major Irish, European and American Playwrights, and was recognised as one of the leading provincial companies. "It is fitting that all this is happening on or about their 25th birthday, and what a nice birthday present it is", said the Mayor.
In 1966, the Drama Circle had been invited to perform plays by Yeats as part of the programme of the Yeats Summer School. Arising out of this commitment, the group embarked on a series of short, summer season of plays by Irish authors, and in 1970 it was decided to extend the summer season as a contribution to Sligo's tourist industry, and a summer theatre came into being and had now led to what was seen as the theatre on opening night. I hope that the people who come after us will realise the work that has been done to preserve the arts in Sligo. I hope that the artists who perform here will get fulfilment and enjoyment from playing and performing to full houses always", said the Mayor who, in conclusion, paid tribute to the architects and builders, and to the Bishop of Elphin, Dr. Conway for the provision of the site.
Welcoming the President to Sligo, County Manager, Mr. Paul Byrne, who is Chairman of the Hawk's Well Theatre Company, said his attendance acknowledged the important role which the theatre would play in the cultural and artistic life of the region. Mr. Byrne thanked the Mayor and members of Sligo Corporation; the Chairman and members of the Arts Council; Bord Fáilte; and the Chairman and Board of Directors of Donegal/Leitrim/Sligo Tourism whose initiative and financial support has made the new theatre a reality. He also thanked the clergymen who on the occasion of the opening of the theatre complex, blessed the building and the theatre. He complimented the architects, Messrs. Patrick Rooney and Associates; the structural engineering consultants, Jennings and O' Donovan; the mechanical and electrical engineering consultants, Delap and Waller; the contractors, Maloney and Taylor; and the various sub-contractors and their workforce for their skills and efforts which had resulted in a fine theatre for Sligo.
"I wish to congratulate all those who over the years have promoted and produced dramatic and musical performances of such a high standard in Sligo, thus encouraging and sustaining the cultural and artistic life of the city, and all who in any way, big or small, supported and promoted the concept of a new theatre in the capital of the North-West. Tonight, their dream has become a reality", said the manager. He also thanked the Druid Theatre Company, Sligo Drama Circle, Sligo Choral Society and the Sligo Branch of Comhaltas Ceoltóiri Éireann who provided the varied programme of drama and music for opening night. He thanked in a special way the various firms and individuals who had provided sponsorship for opening night. Their generous support was deeply appreciated and would, he hoped, act as an incentive to many other companies and organisations to emulate their generosity. He also specially thanked the numerous volunteers both backstage and front of house who had given so generously of their time and talents to get the opening under way.
"To everybody who in any way, big or small, helped us to achieve the dream of this fine new theatre, and which the constraints of time prevents me from naming individually, may I offer our very sincere thanks", the Manager went on. He paid tribute and conveyed the company's thanks to it Artistic Director/Manager, Miss Rhoda Mc Manus, who had worked so diligently and energetically since joining the company in October to get the theatre project under way. "In conclusion, may I offer the wish and hope that the Hawk's Well Theatre shall in the years ahead become a source to which people of all ages will come to avour the beauties and joy of all that is best in the world of drama, music and the performing arts", said Mr. Byrne.
Mr. Colm O' Brien, Director, Arts Council, said the opening was an important occasion in the life of the arts in Ireland, and he added the Council would offer the project support and encouragement in the years ahead. The opening finished with a night's entertainment. The major item on the programme was the performance of "Much Ado About Nothing" by the Galway-based Druid Theatre Company.
Theatre Means Dawn of New Era For Drama in Sligofrom The Sligo Champion, by Michael Moran, January 15th, 1982 Sligo's new £250,000 custom-built theatre, officially opened by the President of Ireland, Dr. Patrick J. Hillery, this week, marks a significant development of drama in the area. The 300-seater theatre, the only one of its kind west of the Shannon, will enhance Sligo's reputation as an artistic and cultural centre, fulfilling a dream held for over twenty years by Sligo drama lovers. "The Hawk's Well Theatre", named after one of W. B. Yeats' great works, represents the beginning of what should be a bright and adventurous new era for Sligo's world of drama. "The biggest job that now remains to be done is to fill the place on the five nights a week in which it will be open. If we can do that then we are doing a tremendous amount of work", said Artistic Director/Manager, Rhoda Mc Manus, yesterday.
In its embryonic stages, the venture was funded in a unique venture by two national bodies. The Arts Council combined with Bord Fáilte and Sligo Corporation to secure the capital needs for the project. "It's a tremendous tribute to the work which everyone has put in, but the real work begins this week, and from now on to ensure quality productions for the Sligo public", Said Rhoda Mc Manus. Understandably, she is delighted with the new centre, which she claims is one of the best in the country. She confidently predicts that it will attract some of the country's top performers in the theatrical world. Already she has far-reaching plans which could give an added boost to drama in Sligo. She favours the setting up of a professional company in the area and the establishment of a theatre school in Sligo Regional College.
Meanwhile, the early programme of events has something for everyone, with Sligo performers figuring prominently. Druid's (Galway) production of Shakespeare's "Much Ado About Nothing", the highlight of the opening night's performances, will run until Saturday 16th January. W. B. Yeats' "The Cat and the Moon" (Sligo Drama Circle) will then follow, and on January 19th one of Sligo's other theatre groups, the Profile Theatre Company will begin the first of two productions. "Private Lives", written by the famous British actor, director and movie star, Noel Coward, is a comedy which tells the tale of two married couples who depart for their honeymoon, bump into each other and find out that they have more than they bargained for in common. The Profile Theatre Group were set up about four years ago and have enjoyed a fair shar of success since then. Playing in their first production in the Hawk's Well will be David Johnston (Ellioa Chase), Denise Doolan (Amanda Prynne), Phil O' Connor (Sybil) and Frank Brannigan (Victor).
From January 26th to 30th the company will stage Bernard Farrell's "I Do Not Like Thee, Dr. Fell". In this comedy a group therapy session turns out to be rather more than the patients expected. Further details of these and other plays planned for the theatre can be had by contacting the theatre at the special 61518 number (at which bookings can be made). Full club bar facilities are available on the night of any production.
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