Embrace friendship and Culture Night at Mayo arts centre

THE Linenhall Arts Centre, Castlebar, a cornerstone of cultural engagement in Mayo, is excited to launch its new ‘Friends’ programme, an initiative inviting individuals and local businesses to become cherished supporters of this not-for-profit charity, dedicated to enriching the community through the arts.

For over 30 years, the Linenhall, a beacon of creativity and cultural expression, has welcomed more than 32,000 visitors annually, with over half travelling from beyond Castlebar. Committed to nurturing creativity, and promoting diversity through extensive outreach to over 3,000 primary and secondary school children each year, the Linenhall’s mantra, ‘Arts for All,’ reflects its core mission of making the arts both accessible and inclusive.

The ‘Friends’ programme offers various levels of support, each providing unique benefits. As a Friend, Close Friend, or Best Friend, your name is listed on www.thelinehall.com and a number of complimentary event tickets are received. Most importantly, your contribution directly supports the employment of artists and the continuation of vibrant arts programming.

Not everyone can offer financial support, but any form of assistance in advancing the arts in the community is welcome, whether it be engaging with The Linenhall’s social media, enjoying a coffee from Siopa Caife, reading the weekly newsletter, or spreading word of its work.

CULTURE NIGHT

On Friday, September 20, Culture Night 2024, arguably one of the Linenhall’s favourite nights of the year, happens.

Young musicians from Music Generation Mayo’s Harp Ensemble perform at 5.30 p.m., promising a magical experience.

In the theatre from 7 p.m., Music West presents a host of onstage ensembles. A variety of musical genres will be performed by Male Voice Choir; Mayo Youth Orchestra; Rolling Waves; Mayo Concert Orchestra & Vocal Essence; Gospel Choir; Castlebar Concert Band; Bella Capella, The High Flyers and Music West Big Band.

A unique experience, the Silent Disco, one room, a gaggle of DJs and a whole lot of fun, takes place from 7.30 to 10 p.m. Ditching the loudspeakers, you’re invited to pop on headphones as guest selector SIM CARD picks the tunes.

A live playlist has been curated, featuring global anthems, home-grown heroes, old school classics and some cultured surprises.

Opening specially until 8 p.m., the gallery showcases Roisin McGuigan’s Wayfinding. A beautiful exhibition, it combines references to the history of the linen industry, political conflict and the Ordnance Survey, addressing how Mayo and Armagh are inextricably linked through these elements.