Portlaoise arts centre's founding director to promote Irish culture globally
Louise Donlon to Chair of the Culture Ireland Expert Advisory Committee
A woman who was the founding director of Portlaoise's Dunamaise Arts Centre has been appointed by the Government to lead a cultural body tasked with promoting and advancing Irish arts worldwide.
Catherine Martin, Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media, has appointed Louise Donlon as the new Chair of the Culture Ireland Expert Advisory Committee.
Ms Donlon was the first Director of the Dunamaise when it opened in January 1999. She played a central role in the developing the centre as a hub and venue for arts, culture and entertainment in the Laois Town.
She would go on to lead the centre for 13 years until March 2012 when she moved to Limerick to become Director of the Lime Tree Theatre Belltable in Limerick
Ms Donlon, who lived in the Slieve Blooms during her years in Laois, has worked at the forefront of arts administration for over thirty years and has served as a member of the Arts Council and on the board of Siamsa Tíre.
“The global impact of Irish arts and culture is quite phenomenal, exceeding that of countries much larger than Ireland. The investment by artists, arts organisations and Government continues to reap many rewards and accolades, which benefits all sectors of society and the economy. I am delighted to have been invited to chair Culture Ireland at this exciting time and I look forward to working with my colleagues on the Expert Advisory Committee to continue the great work being done by Culture Ireland in showcasing Irish arts on the global stage,” she said.
Louise Donlon when she was Dunamaise Arts Centre Director with staff at the launch of www.dunamaise.ie website. From left: Lorraine O'Callaghan, Theresa Kelly, Nick Anton, David Halpin, Louise Donlon (manager); Niamh White, Jacinta Byrne and Martina Lawless. Picture: Alf Harvey.
“The Chair of the Culture Ireland Expert Advisory Committee plays an important role in guiding Culture Ireland’s strategy and also in the progression of my Department’s ambitions under Global Ireland 2025. With her many years of involvement in the Irish theatre and Arts sector, Louise will bring a large set of skills to the role and also a keen appreciation and understanding of the challenges and also the opportunities facing Irish artists today. I wish her well in her new position,” she said.
Ms Donlon's term as Chair of the committee is effective until the end of 2026.
The Dunamaise Arts Centre celebrates its 25th year in 2024. Michelle De Forge is the current director.