Contents

Library Service 2 Arts Service 6 Archives Service 10 Museum Service 12 Public Art 15 Heritage Office 18 Regional Cultural Centre 22 Cultural Services Division Personnel 26

Foreword

onegal County Council takes a proactive approach to the provision of cultural services in the county. DThis document highlights a number of events and achievements of the Council’s Cultural Services Division from 2010, which show the huge diversity and the exceptional quality of the various programmes, whether this be through the Library Service, the Arts (County Arts , Regional Cultural Centre, Public Art) or Heritage (Museum, Archives, Heritage). The Elected Members of recognise the importance of culture as a resource for and seek to provide support for this key sector annually. It is our aim that the Council will continue to deliver high quality cultural services as one of its core services. The 5 goals of the Cultural Services Division are (i) to improve access to, and increase participation in cultural activities in County Donegal, (ii) to maintain and develop a high quality service, (iii) to promote and develop the educational value of culture, (iv) to promote excellence and innovation, and (v) to promote the importance of culture and preserve cultural inheritance. While these are high-level goals, they translate into a range of cultural experiences available to the community across the county. Each experience can contribute to the short, medium and long-term development of the individual, particularly of children and young people, but also for adults. These experiences are provided for your enjoyment, information and education and I encourage you to take up the opportunities provided. We look forward very much to meeting you.

Clr. Noel McBride Mayor of County Donegal Chapter1

There were 312,018 visits to Donegal libraries in Library 2010. This is an increase Service of 5% on the 2009 figures

A New Library for Soapbox Challenge, ‘Wind Energy –The Seachtain na Gaeilge Most Popular Books November. ‘Paper Stories’ took place Bundoran Community Gaoth Dobhair Future or a Blot on the Landscape?’ This The promotion of the The two most borrowed books in in Áras Sheáin Bháin in Baile na Finne, Library helps you In July, the Minister for the Environment, was quoted as being ‘the best attended is highlighted in the ‘Cultural Donegal in 2010 were ‘The Official the Arranmore Island Development ‘Relax and Read’ ! Heritage and Local Government wind energy debate in the country’. The Connections’ strategic plan. Seachtain Theory Test for Learner Drivers’, and Employment Co-op, The Forge You can now order your tea or coffee announced funding of €600,000 for a winner competed in the national final in na Gaeilge was held from the 8th to the followed by ‘Little Darlings’, by Family Resource Centre in Pettigo and at a local café and relax with a nice new library in Gaoth Dobhair. Since Farmleigh, . 17th of March. 404 people attended table Jacqueline Wilson. The Mevagh Family Resource Centre book from the library. The ‘Relax and then library staff have been working with quizzes, storytelling, and other events. Best-selling authors Stieg Larsson, in Downings. Facilitated by Kids Own Read’ campaign was implemented in Údaras na Gaeltachta on Aislann Ghaoth Wainfest Irish language stock was promoted and Dan Brown, Marian Keyes, Maeve Publishing Company, the aim was to Bundoran. Four local cafés agreed to Dobhair. Construction was largely Donegal’s 14th Wainfest Festival was library staff visited Gaelscoileanna Binchy, Colm Toibín and Patricia create opportunities for parents and display some library books on trial for completed by year end. The library will launched by Mayor Cllr Cora Harvey in and naoinraí. Scanlan featured as authors of the top their young children to work together to the summer. Forty books were delivered be a contemporary space, accessible to the Central Library in October. Over 5100 10 titles borrowed. Of the top 100 titles make their own books. to each café, including children’s books, the whole community and will open to children and young people with parents Some Statistics borrowed, almost 50% were books for The result was a once-off publication short reads, travel books and coffee table the public in 2011. and teachers attended 116 events in There were 312,018 visits to Donegal children or young people. Children called ‘Ag Obair le Chéile’, which will be style books - which could be easily read libraries and Taobh Tíre centres. As well libraries in 2010, (2122 visits per 1000 continue to love reading! launched in 2011. while relaxing over a cuppa. ‘Relax and Europe Direct Information as local talent including Joe Brennan and population). These visitors borrowed Read’ was so successful it continued Centre, Central Library, Sharon Aicken, 2010 saw the return of 351,402 items. This is an increase on Taobh Tíre Reader Shared Stories Project throughout winter. old favourites such as Michael Moylan’s 2009 figures of 5% in visitor numbers Development The OECD report, ‘Reading for Change’, The Europe Direct Information historical and science workshops and and 12% in number of items borrowed Programmes found that reading for pleasure is more Travelling Library Centre provides access to European Niall de Búrca’s animated storytelling. - despite a 16% decrease in library Taobh Tíre was awarded funding of important to a child’s educational The Travelling Library is a unique Commission websites and publications opening hours due to decreased €10,000 under the Peace lll Programme, achievement than family’s wealth or mobile resource that houses books plus a free phoneline to Europe. In 2010 Bealtaine staffing levels. to deliver two reader development social class. This is the rationale behind made by children for children. Kids Own the Centre answered 102 telephone calls In 2010 the Bealtaine Festival, promoting Libraries were open a combined programmes: ‘Shared Stories’. With €5,000 granted facilitators worked with young people and 555 emails as well as dealing with creativity in older age, celebrated its 13th 346.8 hours per week. In addition the In ‘Anything to Declare?’ , young from the Peace III Programme, 29 book and their parents in Bundoran Library. 2895 personal queries. year in Donegal with a diverse range cross-border mobile library made 11 people ( at the St. Johnston Carrigans collections were placed in libraries and Their writings and drawings were then The Centre staged 30 events of events including storytelling, flower stops per week in Donegal. Family Resource Centre ) gathered Taobh Tíre centres. compiled with those of children from (with 3000 participants), ranging arranging, circular knitting, besom- 29,511 Internet sessions were taken stories and memories of The Troubles Each collection contains other libraries in Sligo, Enniskillen from environmental and anti-racism making, music and song. Creative local up. Libraries in all areas staged 81 from older people. Working with a picturebooks, storybooks and fairytales and Derry, and published in a book workshops to language classes and a talent included Aussie Bryson and Fergus exhibitions, plus organised 289 events. Verbal Arts Centre facilitator, they from across the globe, as well as books called, ‘Ding Dong, Right or Wrong? European Mobility Week competition, Cleary. A programme of over 87 events Libraries also provided substantial gained experience and skills in about children of all races, highlighting Children’s Rights, Needs and Visions which resulted in the installation of in 20 venues took place in libraries outreach visits and support to interviewing, researching and recording the differences and of course the for the Future’. The book was officially bicycle parking at Central Library. One and Taobh Tíre Centres with over 800 nursing units, playgroups and schools techniques, culminating in the DVD, commonalities of all children. A reading launched by the Minister for Children in highlight was the regional final of the attending. throughout Donegal. ‘Anything to Declare ?’, showcased in list is available. Dublin in November.

2 3 from left: Taobh Tíre reader Development Programme, ‘Ag Obair le Chéile’ Photo: Kids Own Publishing Partnership

Launch of Travelling Library Photo: Kids Own Publishing Partnership

‘Shared Stories’ project storytelling event at The Central Library Photo: Library Service

Leabharlann Gaoth Dobhair Photo: Desks International

A local launch took place in James Canavan, John Grant and Atsy cuts time from item purchase to arrival ‘Who Do You Think Storytelling Caravan in readings, and attend other arts events Bundoran where local children read McCaul, who documented social and on the library shelf and economically You Are?’ Donegal libraries hosted visits by the at Dámhlann. The official opening and their own stories from the book and cultural life over the past 50 years. To uses email and text notices for overdue Over 1070 attended 54 Donegal Studies Storytelling Caravan to and the inaugural event took place during each child received a complimentary complement the archive, staff created items and reservations. The use of self- events held in 11 libraries. One of the Carndonagh as part of the Earagail Arts Earagail Arts Festival 2010. copy. This project was a fantastic an exhibition - aspects of Lifford issue terminals in busier libraries helps most memorable was ‘Who Do You Festival. Children disappeared into the opportunity for the library service to history since the 19th century. reduce queuing while a comprehensive Think You Are?’ - a series of 4 genealogy caravan to be entertained by tall tales increase children’s interaction with reporting system assists in efficiency of workshops in Central Library, organised from all parts of the globe! libraries and books and promote reading Working with other stock management. in partnership with the Council’s both as an informational aid and as a Council Services Donegal County Council received Archivist and the HSE’s Public Records Wildchild Pavement Art fun and creative pastime. Social Inclusion Week, which is funding in 2010 under the Public Office. 176 participants were introduced Milford Library hosted the very organised by the Social Inclusion Unit, Libraries Access and Support Scheme to genealogy resources in Central successful and innovative Wildchild Creative Writing in promotes and highlights the work the (PLASIS) to upgrade lines in Gaoth Library. Shaun Doherty, Highland Pavement Art project during Heritage Dungloe Council does in terms of providing a Dobhair, Raphoe and Moville libraries Radio, and Donegal Person of the Year, Week to encourage family creativity and In response to a highlighted need, staff socially inclusive service - and who and to introduce public WIFI into Mairéad Ní Mhaonaigh, had their family outdoors activity. This project will be in Leabharlann Phobail na Rosann better placed than the Library Service to Letterkenny, Carndonagh, Ballybofey trees traced by staff from the Donegal highlighted in their 2011 Success Stories placed a notice in the local press for assist the Unit in this? and Bundoran libraries. Registry of Births, Marriages and national workshop for public library staff. people interested in forming a creative With 16 libraries and 14 Taobh Tíre The successful ‘FÁS e-learning @ Deaths. A further 250 people enjoyed 6 writing group. Since the inaugural centres, libraries reach communities The Library’ project continued to Phase Donegal Studies outreach events. Dámhlann an Ghleanna meeting in April, the group meets each across the county. Most services are free 3 with a total of 276 students registered Poet and author Cathal Ó Searcaigh Tuesday in the library writing poetry, and all are accessible to the community. on courses in 16 libraries and Taobh Tíre ‘Acting for Change’. gave his complete archive, including his prose etc. Their first compilation, Library events that took place this Centres. In 2010 the Smashing Times Theatre original manuscripts and an extensive ‘Patchwork’, will be launched in the year included storytelling, rhyme Company visited Inishowen, staging personal collection of books and visual library in 2011. time for children, creative writing and Donegal Studies Stock workshops on ‘Acting for Change’ in artworks, to the people of Donegal in exhibitions. There are over 32,000 books, CDs, Carndonagh Public Service Centre. 1999. The books and artworks are now North West Film Archive DVDs, maps etc in the Donegal Studies The project used drama and theatre housed at Dámhlann an Ghleanna, in Lifford Library ICT Services in Donegal Collection. In 2010, further digitised to address segregation and to promote alongside Cathal’s family home at Mín As part of Heritage week in August, Libraries editions of local newspapers were equality. Members from Carndonagh, a’Leagha. This facility was constructed Ciara Cunnane, Manager of the Europe Lifford Library hosted the North Significant improvements in ICT purchased. New publications are added Moville, Buncrana and Central Library by Donegal County Council, in Direct Information Centre (EDIC) at The Central Library, Letterkenny, West Film Archive, featuring film facilities and services were made in throughout the year, with a list of all new Derry, took part and professional partnership with Údarás na Gaeltachta promoting the EDIC Soapbox event, and video content from Derry and Donegal libraries in 2010, with the books and journal articles published in scriptwriters produced a script based and The Arts Council / An Comhairle ‘Wind Energy, The Future or a Donegal. Highlights include work from installation of new library management the ‘Donegal Annual ‘ and listed on the on the workshops, to be performed in Ealaíon. Writers, academics and Blot on The Landscape ?’ local filmmakers Terence McDonald, software. The new system drastically www.donegallibrary.ie website. Carndonagh in 2011. members of the public may participate Photo: Joanne Sweeney-Burke, Media Box

4 5 Chapter2 Arts Service

The Arts Service McNulty with Photographs and Text County Museum, the Regional Cultural Donegal County Council provides a documenting traditional shop interiors Centre, the Central Library, An Grianán range of supports for the development in Donegal, Sligo, Leitrim, Tyrone Theatre, Port na Fáilte Intercultural of the Arts in County Donegal. The Arts and West Cavan which was shown Centre, the LOFT Foróige Youth Café, Service works closely with a wide range throughout the village of Mountcharles. Donegal Travellers’ Project and St. of artists, arts organisations, education The Festival also showcased new Eunan’s Cathedral. Donegal County service providers and community groups theatre work for children by two new Council Cultural Services were to the in all parts of the County. In line with Donegal companies, Súgradh’s ‘The fore across the programme including goals and objectives of the ‘Cultural Magic Paintbrush’ and Handful of the Heritage Office which presented Connections Strategic Plan for the Sky’s ‘Up where The Clouds Are ‘ as a guided tour of Letterkenny’s Cultural Services Division 2009 –2014’, well as hosting the recording at The architectural heritage and the this work prioritises the continuous Abbey Arts Centre in Ballyshannon Archives Service which presented improvement of access to and of two editions of RTE Radio’s iconic its ‘Past in the Present’ exhibition at participation in creative activities among ‘Sunday Miscellany’ programme the County Museum as well as County all members of the public, the promotion featuring writers Michael Harding, Donegal VEC’s Music Education Service and development of the educational Brian Leyden, John Nee, Denise Blake, which presented an Open Rehearsal value of the arts and the support of Marie Hannigan and Frances Travers by the Donegal Youth Orchestra at the quality and innovation in the arts sector. with music by the Donegal Chamber Regional Cultural Centre. Orchestra, Fidil, The Henry Girls and In all, 21 cultural venues 10th. Donegal Bay and Catherine and Ellie McGinley which participated in the programme which Blue Stacks Festival were broadcast on Sunday, October 10 generated 4,300 visits over the course The 10th. Donegal Bay and Blue Stacks and Sunday, November 28. of the evening. Culture Night was Festival took place from September presented by Donegal County Council 25 – October 3. The Festival programme 2nd. Culture Night Cultural Services with Letterkenny included new productions by Balor Rep Culture Night took place in Letterkenny Town Council, the Department of Theatre Company (‘Women on The – as well as throughout An - Tourism, Culture and Sport and Verge of HRT’ by Marie Jones) and on the evening of Friday, September 24, Temple Bar Cultural Trust. Donegal Drama Circle ( ‘The Lonesome 2010. The programme took place in a West’ by Martin McDonagh )as well variety of venues including Letterkenny 10th. Carnival as the first public showing of ‘High Town Park – which hosted An Cosán Ballyshannon Shelves and Long Counters’ – a major Glas’s spectacular illuminated Loinnir Carnival Ballyshannon is the largest exhibition by Heike Theile and Winifred night-time sculpture trail – Donegal single arts project in which the Donegal

Dancers from Belfast’s ArtsEkta company with Dance 4 Lyfe performers from Ballyshannon, performing at the LUXe installation on William Allingham Bridge, as part of the annual Carnival Ballyshannon parade. Photo: Denzel Brown 6 7 The late, great Mick Lally appeared at An Grianán Theatre An Grianán Theatre in one of his final stage appearances, as the put-upon referee in City Theatre’s An Grianán Theatre virtuoso Castlefin fiddle player Matt the year caused no end of cancellations very popular 2010 was a challenging year for An McGranaghan. An Grianán was - over 3000 alone for the ‘Scrooge’s football comedy, Despite the current climate, ‘God’s Official’. Grianán Theatre on several fronts, with delighted to be awarded additional Christmas’ show - but bravo to the Photo : City Theatre the problems of the wider economy funding under the Peace III Programme hardy fans of economics guru David some 30,000 people still chose to clearly reflected. Two key factors - to run a community and audience McWilliams, over 300 of whom braved reduced ticket prices which were development programme which a snowbound theatre in December for enjoy the live theatre experience, introduced to combat falling audience commenced in October and ran until An Grianán’s last show of 2010 when figures and the severe weather in March 2011. The programme included McWilliams appeared in The Abbey indicating that An Grianán December – combined to produce a an Artist’s Residency at the Theatre by Theatre’s production of ‘Outsiders’. remains central to the lives significant reduction in box office Little John Nee wherein he performed income for the year. Even so, some three of his best loved plays, ‘The Derry In-House Successes of a great many Donegal people 30,000 people did chose to enjoy the live Boat’, ‘The Mental’ and ‘Rural Electric’, An Grianán remains strongly theatre experience indicating that An as well as having the scripts of these committed to producing new work Grianán is still very much central to the plays published for the first time. in-house and was particularly happy to lives of a great many Donegal people. see its 2009 ‘Snow Queen’ co-production Mick Lally with Fidget Feet Aerial Dance Company, Peace III Programme An Grianán Theatre was honoured also tour successfully to the Civic Theatre, Continuing uncertainty about Arts to have hosted one of the last stage Tallaght in 2010 as well as to the George Council funding throughout the sector appearances by the late acting legend, Bernard Shaw Theatre, Carlow and The 22nd. Earagail Arts Festival also caused difficulty in sourcing quality Mick Lally, who starred in City Theatre’s Black Box, , in early 2011. touring productions. The Theatre’s football comedy, ‘God’s Official’, seen at ‘Live and Kicking’ , a competitive response to this was to innovate several the theatre in April. Mr. Lally appeared summer showcase of emerging 22nd. Earagail Arts artists on their own arts programmes. prestigious Celtic Connections Festival in-house productions of which the in several productions at An Grianán music talent in the North West, was Festival Among the artists featured in the in . highlights included the PEACE III over the years including ‘Happy Days’, another succesful in-house initiative. The 22nd. Earagail Arts Festival showcase programme were The funded ‘Border Crossings’ Summer ‘The Chastitute’ and ‘DruidSynge’ . A Its winner, Lifford singer songwriter presented a programme that featured Henry Girls, in a special Festival Festival Highlights School - a two week exploration of the much loved and regular performer in Stephen Martin who performs as Rainy 160 events in 40 venues across 20 collaboration with West Virginia Other Festival highlights included Irish and Scottish music and dance Donegal over a long and distinguished Boy Sleep, has since gone on to gain towns and villages including Oileán bluegrass band The Fox Hunt, traditional performances by Les Parfait Inconnus traditions through workshops, career, he died on August 10th. , 2010. regular radio airplay on BBC Radio 1 Thoraigh, Oileán Árainn Mhóir, Dún music trio Fidil, Dr. Liz Doherty, Doimnic (Can.) , Villagers and The Divine masterclasses and concerts - in Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam. and will also perform at the Glastonbury Lúiche, , Ballybofey, Raphoe, Mac Ghiolla Bhrídé, The Inishowen Comedy, Aisteoirí Ghaoth Dobhair’s partnership with Strabane’s Alley Festival in 2011. This success has come Letterkenny, An Clochán Liath, Machaire Carnival Group, Altan in concert with the hilarious ‘Aintín Searlais’ at An Grianán Theatre. ‘Border Crossings’ was Snowbound Scrooge directly from the profile boost he Rabhartaigh, Gaoth Dobhair, Ards Donegal Youth Orchestra and the ‘ID : Theatre, Duke Special ar Oileán facilitated by Kintra, the band led by The severe winter weather at the end of received at An Grianán. Forest Park, , An Falcarrach, Imaging Donegal’ series of photographic Thoraigh and a memorable staging Gort ‘a Choirce, Churchill, , exhibitions, as curated by the Regional of Frank McGuinness’ ‘Dolly West’s Carndonagh, Buncrana and , Cultural Centre. The Henry Girls, The Kitchen’ at Glebe House, Churchill, the between July 3rd and 18th. Fox Hunt and Dr. Liz Doherty were home of the late Derek Hill. County Council Arts Service is involved. Victor Yelamo ( Cello It is estimated that over 36,500 subsequently invited to perform at the Initiated in 2001 as the centrepiece ) and Jane Gormley people attended festival events – 69% of the inaugural Donegal Bay and ( Cello ) performing (25,185) of whom were from Donegal, Blue Stacks Festival The carnival has with the Donegal 15% (5,475) were visitors from Northern been presented from the beginning Chamber Orchestra at , 8% (2,920) travelled to Donegal by a partnership of Donegal County a special recording in from other parts of the Republic of Council, Erne Enterprise Development The Abbey Centre, Ireland and 8% (2,920) were UK and other Ballyshannon of RTE Company Ltd., The Abbey Arts Centre overseas visitors. (Source: Audiences Radio 1’s ‘Sunday and Ballyshannon Town Council. The Miscellany’ radio Northern Ireland Survey, EAF 2010). 2010 event, ‘Carnival Bollyshannon’, programme, as part of which took place on Saturday night, the Donegal Bay and Made in Donegal October 2, was directed and facilitated Blue Stacks Festival. A new element of the 2010 Festival was by the Inishowen-based LUXe carnival Photo : Ronan Mathews the highlighting of a special ‘Made In spectacle company. It was preceded by Donegal’ showcase which, through an intensive programme of open and the support of Culture Ireland, invited Mercury Prize nominated in-school workshops and rehearsals arts practicioners and promoters from Irish band, Villagers, in leading to a Parade which boasted the overseas to Donegal to experience the performance at The Grill, enthusiastic involvement of over 400 range of cultural product available in Letterkenny as part of participants and drew an audience the county, with a view to encouraging Earagail Arts Festival. Photo : John Soffe estimated at between 3,500-4,000 people these promoters to engage Donegal onto the streets of Ballyshannon.

8 9 Chapter3

Funding was successfully sought from The Heritage Archives Council to contribute to the cataloguing of the entire Donegal GAA archives Service collection so that it may be accessible to all

Ulster Plantation purposes, digitally scanned for public across the country. It is part funded by Schools Pack access and made available on the the Heritage Council and this project is and Booklet Council website. in co-operation with the Heritage Office. The Ulster Plantation Document Study In 2010, the minutes from 1899 to Pack is a project designed to bring 1980 were microfilmed and scanned. Acquisitions at history to life for children and young Some of the digitised minutes have the Archives people and to assist teachers in the been made available on Donegal In 2010, Teagasc in Stranorlar donated a study of this seminal period of history, County Council’s website; more will be wealth of the archives of its predecessor using primary source material. An added at a later date. body, the County Donegal Committee illustrated booklet details the history of of Agriculture, to the County Council’s from left: During the Bealtaine the Plantation period from the Flight The GAA in Donegal: Archives. Now listed in full, the material Festival in May, the Archives Service in of the Earls in 1607 up to and including A History and Archive includes minutes of meetings, letter association with the Museum organised the Rebellion of 1641. The pack includes In 2006, the Donegal Board of the books, show catalogues and annual a series of reminiscence sessions entitled “Not That Long Ago” in Day worksheets for students and high quality GAA donated its historic archive to reports covering 100 years. Care Centres and Community Hospitals facsimiles of archives, such as letters, Donegal County Archives. Funding throughout Donegal. Using original maps, plans, reports of committees on was successfully sought from The The Past in the Present archives and objects visitors and events, and portraits from the era. Heritage Council in 2010 to contribute Touring Archives clients were given the opportunity to to the cataloguing of the entire Donegal Exhibition reminiscence about their lives and their Microfilming and GAA collection in order to ensure the The Past in the Present Touring communities Digitisation of collection will be accessible to all. The Archives Exhibition, celebrating 250 Minutes of Donegal project includes an illustrated booklet years of Donegal history and archives produced to coincide with International letters, plans of labourers’ cottages, County Council highlighting the material preserved in and ten years of the Archives Service, Women’s Day and Mother’s Day. It workhouse minute books, etc. Meetings the County Archives. went on display in the Civil Defence highlighted the diverse collections Preservation of archives and Offices in Stranorlar, the County held relating to women and girls. A World Apart: The comprehensive access to collections Survey of Donegal Museum in Letterkenny and the Library Later in the year for Social Inclusion Donegal District Lunatic are important actions in the Cultural Photographic Collections in Bundoran, in 2010. Week, an exhibition entitled ‘Social Asylum/St Conal’s Connections Strategy for the Cultural A comprehensive survey of archives Exclusion and Poverty in 19th Century Hospital Services Division. As part of this and with of photographic collections relating Exhibitions at the Donegal’, commemorating the The Archives Service assisted the the co-operation of Corporate Services, it to Donegal history and culture Three Rivers Centre experiences of the poor and socially County Museum with its exhibition of was decided that the archived minutes of commenced in November 2010 and Two exhibitions took place at the excluded of 19th century Donegal, was the history of St. Conal’s Hospital, ‘A the meetings of Donegal County Council was finalised in early 2011, resulting in Archives in 2010. One was entitled produced. Included in the exhibition World Apart’, which was launched in would be microfilmed for preservation a detailed database of collections held ‘Women in The Archives’ and was are photographs of people and places, December 2010.

10 11 Chapter4

The ‘Living History’ events programme proved extremely Museum popular with schools, the local community Service and tourists

Bringing the the Plantation of Ulster. The aim of all with the Arts Service of Donegal Workhouse to Life the projects is to increase awareness of County Council was involved in a In 2010 the Museum received funding the Plantation and its impact amongst unique and innovative transnational from the Department of Tourism, communities in both Derry and project entitled Edges with partners in Culture and Sport to organise a series Donegal. In February, in association Norway and Iceland. At the core of the of living history events. The Museum with Derry City Council Heritage and project are three museum-based artists’ is based in part of the Letterkenny Museum Service and the Heritage residencies, each exploring a similar Workhouse built in the 1840’s and to Office of Donegal County Council, the Edge related theme - The Edge of The bring the history of the building to life Museum launched three Plantation Pier (Vesterålen, Norway, Autumn, the Museum organised the following booklets, ‘The Plantation in Donegal 2010), The Edge of the Sea (Donegal, events: and Derry’, ‘Plantation Architecture Summer 2010) focusing on sea journeys and Landscape’ and ‘The Legacy of the by Donegal hermit monks and The ■ Living History event (live Plantation in Derry and Donegal’. These Edge of the Imagination (East Iceland, interpretation) on the theme of the booklets are available free of charge. 2011) focusing on mythical folklore Workhouse once a week during July Throughout the year the Museum and beliefs. The artists in residence at and August. worked with Derry City Council were Theresa ■ In October and November, two Heritage and Museum Service and Kavanagh and Joleen McLaughlin, both week-long programmes of free Living the Nerve Centre on ‘The Planter and accomplished traditional musicians History workshops for primary schools The Gael’ project. This project brought and music composers. They worked based in the Museum together cross community, cross border in conjunction with musicians from ■ A special Living History event in groups in the Derry City Council Norway and Iceland and the resulting the Museum on Culture Night (24th and Donegal County Council areas suite of music entitled ‘The Teelin September). to raise their awareness and increase Voyage’ was premiered at the Earagail their knowledge of the Plantation and Arts Festival in July 2010. This programme of events was provided its historic significance. The project free and proved extremely popular culminated in a seminar on the 1st July Bealtaine Events with schools, the local community and entitled, ‘The Plantation of Ulster – During Bealtaine Festival of Creativity tourists. What Does It Mean To Us Now?’. in Older People, the Museum and Archives Service organised a series Plantation Edges International Reminiscence Sessions entitled ‘Our Participants at one of the free The Museum was involved in a Project Lives’, in community hospitals and day Christmas Crafts workshops hosted number of projects on the theme of Donegal County Museum working care centres throughout the County. The by the County Museum, led by tutors from the Irish Countrywomens Association. Photo : Caroline Carr

12 13 5Chapter

The aim of all the projects is to increase awareness of the Plantation and Public its impact amongst communities in both Art Derry and Donegal

Museum also worked with staff from the the band, Mairéad Ní Mhaonaigh onto the exterior glass facade of The right: ‘The Master and Public Art Office Library Service, the Archives Service, Matron of Letterkenny 2010 was another successful year for (fiddle, vocals ), Ciaran Tourish (fiddle, Balor Arts Centre. The outcome was Information Systems, Donegal County Workhouse, waiting to the Public Art Office. Donegal County whistles), Ciarán Curran ( bouzouki ), surprising, immersive, and delightful Council, and the HSE Civil Registration welcome you’. Local actors Council’s Public Art Programme has Mark Kelly ( guitar ) and Dermot Byrne for audiences and formed the opening Service to organise free family history Eoghan MacGhiolla Bhríde been active for over two decades and to ( accordion ) and included workshops, event of Earagail Arts Festival 2010. sessions every Wednesday during May and Anne Gallagher about date over sixty commissions have been masterclasses and a wonderful concert. in the Central Library, Letterkenny to host one of the very awarded and delivered. The project featured pupils from eight Imaging Donegal popular Letterkenny The commissioning of Public schools, about 50 of whom performed ‘ID - Imaging Donegal’ was another Special Events Workhouse ‘Living History’ Art, utilising The Per Cent for with Altan and the Donegal Youth exciting commission which formed part tours which took place Two special events were hosted by the Art Scheme, gives the public the Orchestra in that unforgettable concert of the Residency Strand of the Public weekly at the County Museum in 2010. On the 30th March the Museum during July opportunity to experience a vast range during the Earagail Arts Festival in July. Art Programme. Five photography Miss Donegal 1951 reunion event took and August. of contemporary art in their everyday artists were commissioned, one artist to place in the Museum and on the 22nd Photo : Caroline Carr life and provides the artist with the Redmoon in Ballybofey work in each of the five electoral areas of June a Fashion Show with a Vintage challenge and opportunity to create Stranorlar Donegal – Simon Burch for Ballybofey Twist was held in conjunction with the below: A destitute family work for public engagement and The Public Art Programme Stranolar Electoral Area, Chris Primrose appeal to the Master to enter Society of the St. Vincent De Paul. Both response. commissioned a second unique artists’ for Inisowen Electoral Area, Declan the Letterkenny Workhouse. these events proved very popular and A special ‘Living History’ residency project with local second Doherty for Donegal Electoral Area, drew new audiences to the Museum event during Culture Night. Altan Residency in level school children in the twin towns Paul Rooney for Letterkenny Electoral Photo : Caroline Carr Glenties Electoral Area of Ballybofey-Stranorlar with Redmoon Area and Richard Wayman for Glenties Collaboration There were several examples of Company of Chicago. The residency Electoral Area. with the ICA wonderful new commissions in 2010 was based upon the themes of Frances The specific objective of ‘Imaging The Museum continued its association Touring Exhibitions including the Altan Residency. No Irish Browne, the ‘Blind Poetess of Stranorlar’ Donegal’ was for each commissioned with the ICA in 2010. During Heritage In 2010 the Museum continued to traditional band in the last dozen years , and her famous book of fairy tales for artist to actively research and engage Week in August the Museum hosted tour exhibitions to venues throughout has had a wider impact on traditional children, ‘Granny’s Wonderful Chair’. with a particular aspect of a specific a series of craft workshops and an Donegal. In June the ‘Dance of The music lovers throughout the world The Redmoon Company engaged the electoral area (and its character) in exhibition of the work undertaken by Fishing Boats’ exhibition travelled to than Altan. Working with the Regional young participants in the powerful order to create a significant body of Guild members from all over Donegal to Arranmore Island. In July ‘The Railway Cultural Centre to deliver the residency, action of retelling Frances Browne’s photographic work that reflected and celebrate 100 years of the Irish Country Exhibition’ was hosted in Oakfield Park, Altan undertook a unique second classic local text in an innovative captured local images and realities. Women’s Association. In November the Raphoe, while also in July, the exhibition level schools educational residency in context. Using shadow puppetry and live The overall exhibition opened at the Museum organised free Christmas Craft ‘Before I Joined the Army’ was on the Glenties Electoral Area from the animation, they created an illuminated Regional Cultural Centre as part of workshops in association with the ICA. display at the McGill Summer School, period from February to July 2010. The animation, entitled ‘A Picture Book’, Earagail Arts Festival 2010 and then All of these events were well attended. Glenties. residency featured all five members of which was projected in the open air toured to the different electoral areas

14 15 left: Anthony Lyons (r) consults with local amateur weatherman, Michael Gallagher, Glenfin, in the course of his artist’s residency in the Stranorlar Electoral Area, as part of the ‘Lovely Weather’ public art project

below: Altan perform for students and teachers of After an international selection Gairmscoil Mhic Diarmada, Aranmore Island, as part of their Public Art Programme Residency in the Glenties process, five artists were chosen Electoral Area. l-r Mark Kelly (guitar), Dermot Byrne (accordian), Mairéad Ní Mhaonaigh (fidil) Ciaran for the ‘Lovely Weather’ project Tourish (fidil ) and Ciarán Curran (bazouki) which encouraged artists and bottom left: Shadow pupperty on the Balor Arts Centre, Ballybofey - from Redmoon scientists to examine on the Theatre’s illuminated animation, ‘A Picture Book’, the culmination of the company’s Frances Brown themed ground the effect of climate public art residency in the Stranorlar Electoral Area. change throughout Donegal bottom right: Peter d’Agostino explores evidence of climate change on Arranmore Island in the course of his artist’s residency in the Glenties Electoral Area, as part of the ‘Lovely Weather’ public art project

All photos : Paul McGuckian

during the autumn of 2010. To coincide / OLATS: Arts & Science Foundation, in the bogs and the lake sediments, in with the exhibition, the RCC organised the partners set out to examine cultural the Finn Valley. a photography competition and the approaches to weather, climate and ■ The League of Imaginary Scientists winning shot was included in the their modifications throughout County (USA) teamed up with NASA’s ‘Mars Imaging Donegal publication. Donegal. Rover Project’, to study the parallels After an international selection between the oceans of Mars past the Rory Gallagher process, five artists were chosen for future of Earth’s oceans. Commission the ‘Lovely Weather’ project which ■ In ‘Carbon Fingerprint’, Canadian This magnificent life size bronze encouraged artists and scientists to artist Seema Goel used local wool as a sculpture by artist David Annand of the examine on the ground the effect of metaphor to articulate the relationship Irish legendary rock and blues guitarist climate change throughout Donegal. between climate change and economics. Rory Gallagher was commissioned by The residencies allowed for in-depth ■ Peter d’Agostino’s (USA) ‘World-Wide Donegal County Council Public Art analyses of science, biology and art. Walks’ explored natural, cultural and Office, in partnership with the Rory In the West we have progressively virtual (web) identities in an attempt to Gallagher International Tribute Festival dissolved our ancestral link to climate. map and reframe the climate change and is beautifully sited in Ballyshannon, This is largely a result of massive debate in West Donegal. the birth place of Rory Gallagher. The urbanisation and the development ■ In South Donegal, Softday (Irl.) launch of the sculpture generated of modern lifestyle and it has been developed unique software to convert national media, television and radio possible to observe a deterioration of data, from MET Eireann and the Marine interest and was unveiled with much sensitivity to meteorology and climate. Institute from Donegal Bay, into abstract acclaim as the highlight of the annual Art can help us to question ‘live’ music. Rory Gallagher International Tribute our perceptions and relationships Festival in June 2010. to weather, climate and help us to experience and reveal our inner Lovely Weather participation with weather and climate, ‘Lovely Weather’ was the title given to the rupture of their balance and its the most ambitious Public Art Project meaning for our world, in the same undertaken by the Public Art Office to way that landscape artists reframed date that culminated in November 2010 the relationship of humans to their with a major exhibition and conference. environment. After a three year collaboration with the ■ In ‘Weather Proof’, Antony Lyons Regional Cultural Centre and Leonardo (UK) explored the hidden, buried layers

16 17 Chapter6

These diverse accounts of life, heritage and culture Heritage in County Donegal... make an important contribution to Office capturing our sense of place

National Heritage Week Donegal Heritage ‘Life a Traditional Building Skills Summer National Heritage Week took place and Lore’ Collection School on Gola Island from Friday, from Saturday, August 21 to Sunday, The Donegal Heritage ‘Life and Lore’ June 11 to Sunday, June 13 as part of August 29. Over 80 events were Collection was launched by Mairéad the County Donegal Heritage Plan. organised in County Donegal with the Ní Mhaonaigh of Altan and Donegal As well as conservation work to Teach Cultural Services Division organising Person of the Year, on Wednesday, Charlie Ned, a traditional building or hosting 25 events. The County May 19. The collection of 64 CDs of on the island, tours of the vernacular Donegal Heritage Office produced a oral recordings tells part of the story of architecture of the island were free County Donegal ‘Heritage Week’ County Donegal through the lives, and conducted three times per day over Event Guide that proved very popular in the words, of some of its residents. the course of the weekend and were again this year. These diverse accounts of life, attended by between 160 – 200 people. As part of National Heritage heritage and culture in County Several traditional craftsmen and Week and in celebration of the 75th Donegal were recorded by Maurice conservation experts were available anniversary of the establishment of O’Keeffe and make an important over the course of the weekend. the Irish Folklore Commission, Dr. contribution to capturing our sense Eithne Ní Ghallchobhair of the Royal of place. Ecological Study of Irish Academy gave an illustrated The Donegal Heritage ‘Life and Two Donegal Islands presentation entitled ‘The Irish Lore’ Collection was commissioned by (Inishfree Upper and Folklore Commission and The 1930s the County Donegal Heritage Office, Inishmeane) Schools’ Collection: Contributions Cultural Services, the County Donegal Over 100 people attended the launch from Ardara’ , to a packed house Heritage Forum and The Heritage by Éanna Ní Lamhna (of RTÉ Radio of about 140 people in Ardara on Council as part of the County Donegal 1’s ‘Derek Mooney’ programme) of Tuesday, August 24. Heritage Plan. The collection can the ‘Ecological Study of Inishfree The presentation highlighted the be consulted through the County Upper and Inishmeane’ as part of significant and entertaining material Library Service. the Peadar O’Donnell Weekend in collected by schoolchildren and their Ionad Teampaill Chróine, Dungloe National School teachers as part of the Traditional Building on Saturday, October 23. The study Schools’ Manuscript Collection. The Skills Summer School was commissioned under the County event was supported by the County on Gola Island Donegal Heritage Plan and was Donegal Heritage Forum and the The Ulster Architectural Heritage undertaken by John Wann (Aulino County Donegal Heritage Office under Society in association with the County Wann & Associates) and Ralph Participants in the Traditional Building the County Donegal Heritage Plan. Donegal Heritage Office, organised Sheppard (Gaia Associates). Skills’ Field School on Gola Island in June 2010 pictured outside Teach Charlie Ned Photo : Joseph Gallagher

18 19 clockwise from right: As part of the implementation of the County Donegal Heritage Plan, the Heritage Office and the County DonegalH eritage Forum commissioned a study of mills and mill sites in County Donegal. Photo : Joseph Gallagher

Launch of the Donegal Heritage ‘Life & Lore’ Collection in the County Museum, Letterkenny in May 2010. Front row (left to right): Jean Dickie (Rathmullan), Packie Manus Byrne (Ardara), Mairéad Ní Mhaonaigh (Altan & Donegal Person Dr. Mary Kelly, NUI Maynooth, of the Year), Evelyn Cunningham (Killybegs), Hugh Herrity (Glendowan), Joe Gallagher (Letterkenny). Back row (left to right): Michael McLoone (former County is working with community Manager, Donegal County Council), Jimmy Carr (Glencolmcille), Helen Meehan (Mountcharles), Charlie McConalogue (former Deputy Mayor of County Donegal), groups to gather and Joseph Gallagher (County Donegal Heritage Office), MauriceO ’Keeffe (Irish ‘Life & Lore’), Charlie McMonagle (Letterkenny), John Connaghan (Falcarragh), Seamus map placenames in eight Harkin (Creeslough), Pat McEniff (Bundoran), Seamus McHugh (). Photo : Caroline Carr townlands as part of the below right: Dr. Eithne Ní Ghallchobhair of the Royal Irish Academy gives an County Donegal Heritage Plan illustrated presentation entitled ‘The Irish Folklore Commission & the 1930s Schools’ Collection: contributions from Ardara’ to a packed house of about 140 people in Ardara as part of National Heritage Week in August 2010. Photo : Joseph Gallagher

Study of Mills and Mill of Action 2.11. in the County Donegal architect, on Friday, September 24. Ireland at Maynooth is working with Sites in County Donegal Heritage Plan: “A pilot project to The walking tour highlighted several local community groups to gather Dedalus Architecture and John Cronin examine the impact of the Plantation on landmark historic buildings of the town’s and map placenames in circa eight & Associates were commissioned the County Donegal landscape”. streetscape and helped participants townlands in the county as part of the to undertake a study of mills and identify familiar architectural styles and County Donegal Heritage Plan (Action mill sites in the county as part of Study of Geological and built heritage features. The tour finished 2.10) with funding from Donegal County the implementation of the County Geomorphological Sites at the County Museum on the High Road Council, Údarás na Gaeltachta and The Donegal Heritage Plan with funding in South Donegal where participants enjoyed the ‘Living Heritage Council. The series of maps from Donegal County Council and The Mr. Malcolm McClure and Dr. Vincent History’ tours of the George Wilkinson- will be launched in summer 2011. Heritage Council. The study includes Gallagher were commissioned to designed workhouse. the establishment of a searchable undertake a study of geological and database of mills and mill sites as well geomorphological sites in the county Audit of Photographic as selected field survey, photography, as part of the implementation of Collections of Heritage development of case studies and the County Donegal Heritage Plan and Historical recording of industrial heritage. (Action 1.6). The survey includes a Significance for County summary of the geology of South Donegal ‘Plantation Architecture Donegal, geological site reports, Mr. Rónán McConnell undertook an and Landscape’ Booklet mapping of geological sites and audit of photographic collections of The ‘Plantation Architecture and making of recommendations regarding heritage and historical significance for Landscape in Derry and Donegal’ the designation and conservation of County Donegal as part of the County booklet was launched on Thursday, geological heritage in association with Donegal Heritage Plan (Action 2.4) February 18 as part of a series of three the Geological Survey of Ireland. The with funding from the Donegal County booklets produced by the Donegal study will be launched in summer 2011. Archives. The audit includes the County Museum and the Derry City identification of historical photographic Council Museum and Heritage Service. ‘Culture Night’ Walking collections and their repositories, the The ‘Plantation Architecture and Tour of Architectural interrogation of these collections and the Landscape’ booklet was researched and Heritage of Letterkenny establishment of a searchable database. above: Ernest Speer’s store on Main written by Duncan McLaren, Dedalus As part of Culture Night 2010, the The audit will be launched in spring 2011. Street, Letterkenny, a Protected Structure, was one of the stops on the built heritage Architecture and part-funded by County Donegal Heritage Office walking tour of the town with conservation Donegal County Council as part of the organised a walking tour of the Pilot Placenames Project architect Brendan Gallagher on ‘Culture County Donegal Heritage Plan. This architectural heritage of Letterkenny Dr. Mary Kelly, Department of Night’ in September 2010. booklet contributes to the achievement with Brendan Gallagher, conservation Geography, National University of Photo : Joseph Gallagher

20 21 Chapter7 Regional Cultural Centre

Regional Cultural Centre RCC already has an impressive track exhibition and a one-day conference at Donegal County Council has developed record in commissioning and organising the RCC in November-December. a truly world-class resource, one of art exhibitions designed to engage with the finest arts facilities in Ireland, a local audiences, including a significant Other exhibition highlights included fit-for-purpose and award-winning number of world-class international - ‘Noughties But Nice’ (a major Arts building. A major Irish Times review exhibitions. Council funded touring Irish group stated that “Letterkenny’s impressive exhibition), ‘Seminal Sixties’ (Richard new arts building places Donegal in an Exhibition Programme. Hamilton, iconic pop art from the international context rather than on the The exhibition programme in 2010 was British Council) and National Travellers periphery”. Donegal County Council’s dominated by three major projects in Retrospective 1985-2010 (with Donegal vision for the Regional Cultural Centre partnership with the Donegal County Travellers Project and Blue Drum). (RCC) is to lead and assist cultural Council Public Art Office and funded by Exhibitions with Donegal development in County Donegal and the Per Cent for Art Scheme. connections included - ‘Abandoned beyond, and to assist wider development Donegal’ (Denzil Browne’s photographic in the County through culture. The ■ ‘Temperance’ by Abigail O’Brien, a commission), Súil na nÓg (Junior Cert Council’s aim is to develop the RCC photographic commission documenting Art, 14th annual show with Donegal as a world-class centre for visual arts the Oatfield Sweet Factory in Art Teachers Association), ‘Borderland’ and socially engaged arts. The art form Letterkenny, opened at the RCC in (community lens-based project with priority areas are visual arts, film & November 2009 and ran until the end of North 55) and ‘Brighter Days’ (Daniel digital media, music, and education / January 2010. McGarrigle, commissioned animated community arts. ■ ‘ID - Imaging Donegal’, featuring drawings and short animated film). The RCC has organised a very full photographic commissions by five programme of high quality activities leading Donegal artist-photographers Concert Performances since it opened in 2007, a significant was exhibited at the RCC from July to There was a strong occasional concert proportion of which have been organised September to coincide with the Earagail programme throughout the year. in partnership with cultural, community Arts Festival and countywide during Highlights included Altan and Old and statutory bodies in the region October-November. Friends, National Chamber Choir, and and beyond. The programme is made ■ ‘Lovely Weather’, an international art the inaugural series of concerts with possible by annual funding from the and climate change residency project in the Donegal Chamber Music Society. Arts Council, Letterkenny Town Council, association with Leonardo Olats, again There were six great Earagail Arts Donegal County Council and project featured five artist teams in each of the Festival gigs with a strong ‘Made in funding from a variety of sources. The five Electoral Areas. It culminated in an Donegal’ emphasis that featured Kevin

22 23 Letterkenny’s impressive new arts building places Donegal in an international context rather than on the periphery Irish Times

Doherty, West Ocean String Quartet, 2010 Sharing Experiences programme (in Cultural Services and others, including Fidil and the premiere of ‘The Teelin partnership with DCC Cultural Services, the 13th annual Wainfest. The RCC above: An image by Abigail O’Brien from her ‘Temperance’ exhibition, a photographic commission documenting the Voyage’, a Donegal County Council joint An Gailearaí Falcarragh and older was also fortunate to be able to play a Oatfield Sweet Factory in Letterkenny. commission with Norway and Iceland. people’s organisations), featured over significant role in the inaugural Peace 3 Photo : Abigail O’Brien. 100 events countywide and cross-border. funded One Donegal, Cultural Diversity Cinema and Film Highlights included ‘Landscape and Month, in November. left: Donegal Music Education Partnership String Ensemble at The best in international cinema was Memory’, a magical painting project led the RCC, featuring l-r.Orsolya Szabó-Yélamo (violin); Michael screened in seasonal film clubs in by artist Ann Quinn and ‘Ancient Roots’, Altan Residency McGinty (double bass), Víctor Yélamo, (violincello) and Lucia association with Access Cinemas. The a wonderful old remedies publication led In a year that was full of highlights the Spacirova (violin/viola). Photo : John Soffe inaugural Peace 3 funded North West by herbalist Niamh McGinley. greatest thrill of all was being involved Youth Film Festival, a Derry/ Donegal in the Altan Residency in partnership below: Wainfest Animation Workshop. Sample of work created by project in partnership with Nerve Centre Young People and with DCC Public Art and witnessing participants at Daniel McCarrigle’s animation workshop, part of and 6 youth groups, culminated in an Cultural Diversity its culmination in a magical concert in the Wainfest programme at the Regional Cultural Centre. exciting youth film festival in April. There was an extensive yearlong Ionad Cois Locha Dunlewey in July. Photo : Daniel McGarrigle children and youth programme in previous page: Bealtaine 2010 Ann Quinn Workshop. Bealtaine Festival partnership with Donegal Youth ● For Further information see Participants in the ‘The Hills Remember / Landscape and The Peace 3 funded Bealtaine Festival Services, HSE Health Promotion, DCC www.regionalculturalcentre.com Memory’ project, led by artist Ann Quinn - a Bealtaine Festival project organised by the Regional Cultural Centre. Photo : Ann Quinn

24 25 Cultural Services Division Personnel

Eileen Burgess Maureen Kerr County Librarian/Divisional Manager Senior Executive Librarian Cultural Services Library Service Library Service Donegal County Council Cultural Services Staff - with Donegal County Manager, Seamus Neely and Guest Donegal County Council Rosemount Lane Speakers - at Cultural Services Day, Regional Cultural Centre, Letterkenny Rosemount Lane Letterkenny Letterkenny County Donegal County Donegal t: +353(0) 74 91 21968 t: +353(0)74 9121968 e: [email protected] e: [email protected] w: www.donegallibrary.ie w: www.donegallibrary.ie

Donna Quinn Helen McNutt Niamh Brennan Terre Duffy Senior Executive Librarian Acting/Senior Executive Librarian Archivist Public Art Manager Donegal, Stranorlar & Glenties Library Service Archives Service Public Art Office Electoral Areas Donegal County Council Donegal County Council Donegal County Council Donegal Library Service Unit 7, Thorne Road Three Rivers Centre Public Service Centre Ballybofey Library Magherennan Lifford Neil Blaney Road Navenny Street, Ballybofey Letterkenny County Donegal Letterkenny Lifford PO, County Donegal County Donegal County Donegal t: +353 (0)74 9172490 t: +353 (0)74 91 75384 t: + 353 (0)74 9168743 f: +353 (0)74 9142290 t: +353 (0)74 9194200 e: [email protected] e: [email protected] e: [email protected] e: [email protected] w: www.donegallibrary.ie w: www.donegallibrary.ie w: www.donegalcoco.ie/archives w: www.donegalpublicart.ie

Joseph Gallagher Judith McCarthy Shaun Hannigan Traolach Ó Fionnáin Heritage Officer Museum Curator Regional Cultural Director Arts Officer Heritage Office County Museum Regional Cultural Centre Arts Service Donegal County Council High Road Port Road Donegal County Council Station Island Letterkenny Letterkenny Rosemount Lane Lifford County Donegal County Donegal Letterkenny County Donegal County Donegal t: +353 (0)74 9124613 t: +353 (0)74 9129186 t: +353 (0)74 9172576 e: [email protected] e: [email protected] t: +353 (0)74 9121968 e: [email protected] w: www.regionalculturalcentre.com e: [email protected]

26 27 Children attending the Storytelling Caravan at Carndonagh Community Library with storyteller Melissa Baker, as part of the Earagail Arts Festival Photo: Ursula Cutliffe Donegal County Council Cultural Services acknowleges the invaluable support of all its funders and partner organizations, without whose assistance the projects and programmes described in this publication would not have been possible.

Letterkenny Town Council

Published by Donegal County Council Cultural Services Rosemount Lane Letterkenny County Donegal t: +353 (0)74 9121968

Contributors: Eileen Burgess, Donna Quinn, Helen McNutt, Judith McCarthy, Joseph Gallagher, Niamh Brennan, Terre Duffy, Shaun Hannigan, Traolach Ó Fionnáin.

Design: Mitchell Davies Design (www.mitchelldavies.com)

Printed by: Browne Printers Ltd, Letterkenny

© Donegal County Council 2011