Welcome response to Derry meeting on nightlife and arts
The meeting took place in Sandinos on Monday and was well attended, with a range of businesses, artists, performers, councillors and local people
A public meeting to discuss the development of arts and nightlife culture in Derry received a great response, host Karl Duncan has said.
The meeting took place in Sandinos on Monday and was well attended, with a range of businesses, artists, performers, councillors and local people turning out to have their say.
The forum was led by local campaigner Karl Duncan, who commented that creating a stronger arts and culture sector is crucial to the revitalisation of the city. The event was also backed by the culture charity, Free the Night.
Mr Duncan said: “I was delighted to have such a wide range of local people present to discuss how we can support cultural development in Derry. Attendance and engagement exceeded expectations, and the quality of discussion and passion from speakers around issues like transport, venue availability, licensing, and financial resourcing was heartening to hear.
“Derry is a city that punches far above our weight in our arts and culture offerings, but there is so much potential that is still untapped. I believe our event showed the strength of feeling that exists on this issue and a real desire to build on Derry’s reputation, creating new opportunities for local creatives and young people.
“Investment, skills, and a sense of common purpose among Derry’s cultural leaders are all key to changing things and building an alternative vision for our nightlife and arts. While we can be proud of our many cultural contributions, there is also a sense of frustration when it comes to investment and platforms to grow.
“I am determined, and those in attendance are determined, to raise ambitions for the city we call home, and to advance a positive view of the talent we possess locally while growing Derry’s reputation as an arts and cultural centre.”