Abbey Arts Centre Ballyshannon
Address: Tir Connell Street, Ballyshannon, , Ireland
Phone: 071 9851375
Email: info@abbeycentre.ie
Website: abbeycentre.ie
Description
Upcoming Events
Bel Canto Spring Concert | Fri 24 Mar 2023 | Bel Canto Spring ConcertDate : 24th Mar 2023
Venue : Abbey Arts Centre
Time: (Doors open 19:30) 20:00
Ticket Prices :€11.00 (+ €1.00 fees)
Bel Canto Choral group was formed in the mid 1980s. The choir is part of the Ballyshannon Musical Society, which has a 70 year tradition of musical theatre performance. The group meets once a week and performs at local events. They regularly sing at the Ballyshannon Folk Festival, the Allingham Arts Festival and the Bro. Micheal O’Cleirigh summer school. Bel Canto also perform at choral festivals throughout the country. Angela Currid has been the driving force behind the choir since the early days. Her enthusiasm, commitment & talent know no bounds. Angela’s work as musical director is complemented by her daughter Niamh who provides musical accompaniment with an underlying level of professionalism. Bel Canto are delighted to be returning to the Abbey Centre after an enforced 3 year break and we look forward to performing with friends, old and new.
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Singing & Hip Hop, and Circus Skills and Arts & Crafts | Sun 26 Mar 2023 |
Singing & Hip Hop, and Circus Skills and Arts & Crafts Workshops Sunday 26th March with Guest Tutors! All Children aged 4 years + welcome for fun, fun, fun! Singing, Dance, Circus and Arts & Crafts Workshops, and lots of fun activities!!! Please call 086-1504455 to book your place.
Other Details: Children must wear comfortable clothing, runners, bring lunch, and a drink. This is our 14th Year of Weekly Classes, Annual Showcases, Summer Camps and special events. Our weekly classes run from September – June in Bundoran and, Ballyshannon, We regularly perform in lots of local events: like Ballyshannon Carnival and Pantomimes, Bundoran St. Patrick’s Day Parade, our end of year Variety Showcase in the Abbey Arts Centre Ballyshannon Our classes are primarily about each child expressing their talents, meeting other children who enjoy the same activity, building their confidence, teamwork, gaining life skills etc. All classes are Covid compliant, and all staff are Garda Vetted. Please call Suzanne on 086-1504455 or check www.starsofthewest.net or Facebook: Stars of the West Dance & Performance School Page for all details! |
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Megaslam Wrestling: 2023 Live Tour | Fri 14 Apr 2023 |
Megaslam Wrestling: 2023 Live TourDate: 14 Apr 2023 Time: 19:30,(Doors open 19:00) Venues: Abbey Arts Centre Ticket Prices:
The #1 Live Experience for Families – Megaslam is coming to Ballyshannon for it’s huge 2023 Live Tour! Taking place in locations around the United Kingdom, Isle Of Man & Republic Of Ireland, the 2023 Live Tour will feature your favourite Megaslam stars and some brand new ones in this 2 hour family entertainment spectacular! Megaslam, established in 2009 is The #1 Live Experience for Families, presenting hundreds of events each year, our live show provides families with a fully interactive and action-packed experience! THE ULTIMATE BATTLE – WHO WILL WIN?! Team Megaslam take on Team Nasty in a series of high-energy spectacular matches, designed to get the little ones out of their seats and cheering on their favourites! THE KIDS WILL LOVE THIS! In 2023 – Get ready to enter the world of Megaslam, take your seat and join thousands of fans each year as you witness The #1 Live Experience for Families! YOUTUBE LINK: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9a01604QNOo&t=8s |
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Ballyshannon Brass and Reed Band Presents “An Evening with Charlie Mc Gettigan “ | Wed 19 Apr 2023 |
Venue name: Abbey Arts Centre
Date: Wednesday 19 April 2023
Time: 20:00(Doors open 19:30)
Ticket Prices: full €19.00(+ €1.00 fees) Ballyshannon Brass and Reed Band Presents “An Evening with Charlie Mc Gettigan “
Sponsored By ESB ( Cathleen’s Falls) Ballyshannon Brass and Reed Band was established in 1899 and we revitalised ourselvesin 2020 thanks to funding from our local County Councillors , Barry Sweeny, Micheal Mc Mahon and Micheal Naughton.With their financial support through Donegal County Council,we were able to procure a professional Musical Director Don Swain and the band has grown from 15 to 30 members! There has always been a strong link between the ESB power station (Cathleen’s Falls) and the ESB staff provided many musicians for both band and the town.Charlie Mc Gettigan was one of these staff members and ESB Networks are delighted to sponsor this concert to highlight their contribution to the Music tapestry of Ballyshannon over the past 77 years. We will be thrilled to showcase our special guest Charlie Mc Gettigan , Ballyshannon Brass and Reed Band, Fermanagh Concert Band and our own Farrah Bogle.Join us for some big band and big sound pieces such as “ Salute to Glen Millar” “ American Patrol” and “Sentimental Journey” We look forward to seeing you all for our fundraising concert. All Welcome |
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The Kings of Cool - Album Launch | Thu 4 May 2023 |
Venue: Abbey Arts Centre Ticket Prices: €20.00(+ €1.00 fees) Dates: Thursday 4 May 2023 Time :08:00, (Doors open 19:30) The Kings of Cool – Album LaunchWe are delighted to announce The Kings of Cool will launch their first album here in Abbey Arts Centre with a very special concert. Jason Kelly, Stephen Gallagher and Michael Christie have been recording new music as The Kings of Cool for the last couple of years. They will be playing their original music and some other tunes from the likes of The Beatles, Steely Dan, Van Morrison, Joe Jackson and other more. The band will also be joined by some special guests on the night. A great night not to be missed! |
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Lets Talk About Cancer | Sat 13 May 2023 |
Venue: Abbey Arts Centre Date: Saturday 13 May 2023 Time: 10:00, (Doors open 09:45) Ticket Price: Standard €9.00(+ €1.00 fees)
Lets Talk About CancerLet’s talk about cancer is an event to highlight the excellent support services provided by the voluntary sector in the North West to individuals and their families following a cancer diagnosis. Events on cancer of this scale are seldom held outside Dublin or Belfast, so it is a real privilege for the Abbey Arts Centre to be chosen to host this occasion. This will be a relaxed morning of chat and music with most of the guests having encountered cancer themselves over their own lifetimes. Tommie Gorman has lived with cancer since 1994. He was diagnosed with neuro endochrine tumours in 1994 and has managed the condition since then. His documentary Ireland, cancer and Me was broadcast in 2021 whilst his book Never Better was published late last year. Nikki Bradley is a motivational speaker, campaigner and adaptive adventurer. Diagnosed with a rare form of bone cancer at sixteen and a receiver of a second hip replacement at the age of twenty six, she truly has been on an unique journey. Martin McHugh, former Leitrim goalkeeper published his autobiography ‘Born to Save’ last year. Diagnosed with testicular cancer in 2009 and prostrate cancer in 2015. Martin still lines out for his local team, gives talks to GAA clubs and is a football pundit on Shannonside Radio. Evelyn O’Rourke, broadcaster with RTE chronicled her breast cancer journey ‘Dear Ross’ in 2014 and presented a documentary on breast cancer on TG4 in 2021. She currently works on Today with Claire Byrne of RTE1. Majella O’Donnell was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2013 and had an award winning book ‘It’s All in the Head published in 2014. She was named as a Global Hero of Hope for Relay for Life in January this year. Brian Kennedy remains one of Irelands most popular singing stars. Brian was diagnosed with colon cancer in 2016 and underwent a quadruple bypass in 2021 following a cardiac arrest. As well as still performing Brian is an ambassador for Action Cancer’s Men’s Health. Martin Caldwell, Consultant General and Gastrointestinal Surgeon, Sligo University Hospital. He has worked in Sligo Hospital for nearly 25 years and will outline his experience of working with cancer patients in the North West over that period. Corrine Hasson Director of Services for the Irish Cancer Society will present the incidence and type of cancers being experienced here in the North West. She will also speak about the many supports available in this region. Paul McLoone has survived cancer on six occasions since he was first diagnosed with colon cancer in 2006.He is the organiser of this event.
Music will be provided by Relay for Life Donegal’s Survivor’s Choir, local artists Diarmuid McGee and Deane James, and a special performance by Brian Kennedy. Tickets are €10 each and all proceeds will be donated to local cancer charities |
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Jon Kenny - Words, Lies & Songs | Fri 19 May 2023 |
Venue name: Abbey Arts Centre
Dates: Friday 19 May 2023
Time: 20:00, (Doors open 19:30) Ticket Prices: €20.00(+ €1.00 fees) Jon Kenny – Words, Lies & SongsA show created from Jon’s memoir which he began to work on during lock down. “There are two sides to every story or in my case two voices in the one head” Comic sketches and stories (Voice one) are paired off against the writings (Second Voice) in this hilarious madcap journey only stopping off for a quick rendition of one of his “greatest hits” – definitely in his head. By the way, we do a quick survey of audiences after each show. The early answers are in. you were a hit! Here’s what they said:
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"The Classic Beatles" number 1s Tour | Sat 27 May 2023 |
Venue: Abbey Arts Centre Date: Saturday 27 May 2023 Time:20:00, (Doors open 19:30) Ticket Price: €24.00(+ €1.00 fees) “The Classic Beatles” number 1s TourThe Classic Beatles are the only Beatles tribute band in the world endorsed by legendary Beatle producer Sir George Martin and are the stars of the multi award winning Get Back Show. They’re back on the road with “The Number 1s Tour”. This set gives the band the chance they have always wanted.. to play every Beatles number 1 live. It’s simply incredible how many amazing songs they wrote, hit after hit and all presented with an authenticity and affection that’s second to none. With multiple costume changes and a few hidden gems on the night, be sure to book early for this much anticipated show! A Classic Beatles show brings all the joys of Beatledom to a whole new generation and allows first generation fans to relive the music that changed their lives forever. |
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In the Midst of Plenty | Sun 18 Jun 2023 |
Venue: Abbey Arts Centre Date: Sunday 18 June 2023 Time: 20:00, (Doors open 19:30) Ticket Price:€24.00(+ €1.00 fees) In the Midst of Plenty“In the Midst of Plenty” is a new folk musical set during the height of Ireland’s Great Hunger. The show is embarking on an Irish tour in 2023 after recently debuting to glowing reviews among sell-out crowds in Strokestown Park and the Roscommon Arts Centre. The piece traces the stories of friendship, betrayal, eviction, and emigration among families living on the Strokestown estate. The characters’ stories are set amidst the real-life plot to murder Strokestown landlord Denis Mahon. Audiences are presented hard questions about what it meant to survive the most harrowing chapter in Ireland’s history. Images of original Famine documentation and artifacts have been imaginatively woven into sets and costumes. “In the Midst of Plenty” features an original score of contemporary acoustic folk music and is performed by a cast of professional actors led by Julie Sharkey, Martin Gilligan, and Fia Rua. The live folk band includes renowned trad fiddler Neil FitzGibbon and acclaimed folk artist Gráinne Hunt. Written by playwright/composer-lyricist Amy Day, the show is produced by Enchanted Croí Theatre under the Artistic Direction of Anne-Marie O’Sullivan. The production is supported by the National Famine Way and was developed with funding from the Roscommon County Council Local Live Performance Scheme and the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media. What People Are Saying: “An amazing piece. . .Real and gritty, moments of love, moments of pain, moments of parenting, moments of laughter, moments of revenge and moments of heartbreak. . . Every last member of the audience rose to their feet spontaneously at the end. A piece with what it means to be human at its very heart.” ~ Caroilín Callery, Director, National Famine Way “Artistically compelling and highly topical in its treatment of forced migration. . . one of the most successful professional arts productions about Ireland’s Great Hunger.” ~ Dr Jason King, Academic Coordinator, Irish Heritage Trust “Amy Day’s astute reading of the Famine is evident in the musical’s narrative. Just as the historian does, Amy Day has asked questions of the documents and accounts of the Famine, providing great insight into the lives of women, cottiers, and those on the margins.” ~ Dr Ciarán Reilly, historian of 19th and 20th Century Irish history, Maynooth University
“At a time when women’s rights were inconsequential and unconsidered, the writer has brought the audience right into the heart of an Irish family.” ~ Jonathan Cassidy, Strokestown Town Team “Every member of the audience realised we had just witnessed a wonderful, historically accurate creative production.” ~ Cllr. Joe Murphy
“This musical was stunning, brought tears to my eyes. The performances were faultless, the musical magical.” ~ Paula (audience member)
“Two days later I am still remembering this unbelievable work of art. The songs, the acting, the story. Truly unforgettable.” ~ Dee (audience member) “Wonderfully moving, tragic, emotive, heart-rending and the songs perfectly reflective of the on-stage action. Cannot praise highly enough!” ~ Kate (audience member) “It will evolve into something the whole world knows.” ~ Olwyn (audience member) “The costuming and use of symbolism throughout was very clever – a truly creative production.” ~ Catherine (audience member) “A powerful, engaging, and insightful show that captures the imagination from start to finish. The music, acting, staging, and performances were wonderful. . . Everyone should see it!” ~ Mags (audience member) “The enthusiasm and dedication of the actors was infectious, and carried the audience along to the last memorable scene.” ~ Marie (audience member) “The attention and care that was shown to the symbols of this national tragedy was exquisite.” ~ Kieran (audience member) “It may become a masterpiece of our time.” ~ Peter (audience member) “Fantastic musicians, actors, a haunting experience and one I will never forget.” ~ Sarah (audience member) |
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In the Midst of Plenty | Sun 18 Jun 2023 | In the Midst of PlentyDate:18 Jun 2023
Venue: Abbey Arts Centre
Times: Dates: 20:00,(Doors open 19:30)
Ticket Prices : €24.00(+ €1.00 fees) “In the Midst of Plenty” is a new folk musical set during the height of Ireland’s Great Hunger. The show is embarking on an Irish tour in 2023 after recently debuting to glowing reviews among sell-out crowds in Strokestown Park and the Roscommon Arts Centre. The piece traces the stories of friendship, betrayal, eviction, and emigration among families living on the Strokestown estate. The characters’ stories are set amidst the real-life plot to murder Strokestown landlord Denis Mahon. Audiences are presented hard questions about what it meant to survive the most harrowing chapter in Ireland’s history. Images of original Famine documentation and artifacts have been imaginatively woven into sets and costumes. “In the Midst of Plenty” features an original score of contemporary acoustic folk music and is performed by a cast of professional actors led by Julie Sharkey, Martin Gilligan, and Fia Rua. The live folk band includes renowned trad fiddler Neil FitzGibbon and acclaimed folk artist Gráinne Hunt. Written by playwright/composer-lyricist Amy Day, the show is produced by Enchanted Croí Theatre under the Artistic Direction of Anne-Marie O’Sullivan. The production is supported by the National Famine Way and was developed with funding from the Roscommon County Council Local Live Performance Scheme and the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media. What People Are Saying: “An amazing piece. . .Real and gritty, moments of love, moments of pain, moments of parenting, moments of laughter, moments of revenge and moments of heartbreak. . . Every last member of the audience rose to their feet spontaneously at the end. A piece with what it means to be human at its very heart.” ~ Caroilín Callery, Director, National Famine Way “Artistically compelling and highly topical in its treatment of forced migration. . . one of the most successful professional arts productions about Ireland’s Great Hunger.” ~ Dr Jason King, Academic Coordinator, Irish Heritage Trust “Amy Day’s astute reading of the Famine is evident in the musical’s narrative. Just as the historian does, Amy Day has asked questions of the documents and accounts of the Famine, providing great insight into the lives of women, cottiers, and those on the margins.” ~ Dr Ciarán Reilly, historian of 19th and 20th Century Irish history, Maynooth University
“At a time when women’s rights were inconsequential and unconsidered, the writer has brought the audience right into the heart of an Irish family.” ~ Jonathan Cassidy, Strokestown Town Team “Every member of the audience realised we had just witnessed a wonderful, historically accurate creative production.” ~ Cllr. Joe Murphy
“This musical was stunning, brought tears to my eyes. The performances were faultless, the musical magical.” ~ Paula (audience member)
“Two days later I am still remembering this unbelievable work of art. The songs, the acting, the story. Truly unforgettable.” ~ Dee (audience member) “Wonderfully moving, tragic, emotive, heart-rending and the songs perfectly reflective of the on-stage action. Cannot praise highly enough!” ~ Kate (audience member) “It will evolve into something the whole world knows.” ~ Olwyn (audience member) “The costuming and use of symbolism throughout was very clever – a truly creative production.” ~ Catherine (audience member) “A powerful, engaging, and insightful show that captures the imagination from start to finish. The music, acting, staging, and performances were wonderful. . . Everyone should see it!” ~ Mags (audience member) “The enthusiasm and dedication of the actors was infectious, and carried the audience along to the last memorable scene.” ~ Marie (audience member) “The attention and care that was shown to the symbols of this national tragedy was exquisite.” ~ Kieran (audience member) “It may become a masterpiece of our time.” ~ Peter (audience member) “Fantastic musicians, actors, a haunting experience and one I will never forget.” ~ Sarah (audience member)
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SOTW Summer Show Case | Sat 24 Jun 2023 |
Venue: Abbey Arts Centre Date: Saturday 24 June 2023
Time: 7pm Ticket Prices: Adult €15.00 (+ €1.00 fees), Concession €12.00 (+ €1.00 fees) SOTW Summer Show CaseSOTW Proudly Presents ‘Summertime Showcase’ 14th Annual Showcase 2023! Saturday 24th June 7pm in Abbey Arts Centre Ballyshannon All Children aged 4 – 18 years from Bundoran, Ballyshannon, Donegal, Enniskillen, Kinlough, Cliffony. Grange and the surrounding areas will be performing in our end of year Showcase in the wonderful Abbey Arts Centre Ballyshannon! Dance, Singing, Drama, Pop Songs, Comedy sketches, Guest Artist’s, and lots of surprises! A great Family show not to be missed! Tickets: €15.00 Adults / €12.00 Concessions / Child (+ €1 Booking Fee) / Under 3’s Free Doors open 6.30pm – Show starts at 7pm sharp! Bookings on www.abbeycentre.ie or call 086-1504455 for further details.
Other Details. This is our 14th Annual Showcase. Starting in 2009 we are very proud to have helped so many children shine on the big stage and in all events, we have taken part in. Our weekly classes run from September – June in Bundoran, Ballyshannon, and Cliffony Sligo. Our children regularly perform in lots of local events: Ballyshannon Carnival and Pantomimes, Bundoran St. Patrick’s Day Parade, our end of year Showcase in the Abbey Arts Centre Ballyshannon Our classes are about each child showing THEIR talents, meeting other children who enjoy the same activity, building their confidence, teamwork, gaining life skills etc. All classes and camps are Covid compliant, and all staff are Garda Vetted. Please call Suzanne on 086-1504455 or checkwww.starsofthewest.net or Facebook: Stars of the West Dance & Performance School Page for all details! |
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The Seeger Sessions Revival | Thu 3 Aug 2023 |
Venue : Abbey Arts Centre
Date: Thursday 3 August 2023
Time: 20:00,(Doors open 19:30) Ticket Price:€25.00(+ €1.00 fees)
The Seeger Sessions RevivalThursday 3rd August – 8pm – Opening Night of the 46th Ballyshannon Folk and Traditional Music Festival The Seeger Sessions Revival – The 14-piece band ‘reviving’ the spirit, energy and musical exuberance that was Bruce Springsteen’s Seeger Sessions album and live shows. This diverse group of talented musicians deliver a high energy 2 hour-long on-stage celebration with hits including ‘Old Dan Tucker’, ‘Jesse James’ and ‘American Land’ to name just a few. Made up of Fiddle, Banjo, Accordion, Steel Guitar, Whistle, a thumping rhythm section, a superb virtuosic 4-piece Brass section and strong group vocal harmonies. Sit back and enjoy an evening of Traditional American Folk songs consisting of a Jambalaya of Bluegrass, Folk, Country, Dixieland, Gospel, Rock ‘N’ Roll and Rhythm & Blues. This Revival night has sold out everywhere, so don’t miss out get your tickets now! |
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JOHN COLLEARY: LOUD & COLLEARY | Thu 14 Sep 2023 |
Venue: Abbey Arts Centre
Date: Thursday 14 September 2023
Time: 20:00, (Doors open 19:30) Ticket Price:€18.00(+ €1.00 fees) JOHN COLLEARY: LOUD & COLLEARYRóisín Dubh Comedy presents John Colleary: Loud and Colleary Apart from being one of the most in-demand comics in the land, John Colleary has also co-written and starred in IFTA nominated shows, The Savage Eye (RTÉ2) and Irish Pictorial Weekly (RTÉ One). Other TV credits include appearances on Stand & Deliver (Live from Róisín Dubh) and The Panel (RTÉ2). A talented actor and mimic, John featured as one third of The Gusset Brothers on The Tommy Tiernan Show (RTÉ One).# He has also scooped an IMRO Award for his topical sketch writing and performance on Today FM’s drivetime flagship, The Last Word; and is a favourite at Ireland’s top comedy clubs and festivals. John spent much of 2022 supporting Tommy Tiernan on his sold-out tomfoolery tour to tens of thousands of comedy fans up, down and around the country – including 20-something nights in Vicar Street in 2022 and 10 more scheduled for Jan / Feb 2023, The Marquee in Cork, 3 Waterfront Hall shows in Belfast, 4 nights in University Concert Hall in Limerick, 4 shows in the TLT Drogheda, and 7 nights in Galway’s Leisureland – plus everywhere in between. By the end of the tour John will have entertained over 100,000 comedy fans. In 2023, John will embark on his own national tour, JOHN COLLEARY: LOUD & COLLEARY, which brings him to Ballyshannon, Westport, Ballina, Wexford, Greystones, Dundalk, Drogheda, Belfast, Dublin, Kilkenny, Portlaoise, Athlone, Limerick & Galway Comedy Festival “John Colleary delivered what can only be described as a flawless set” – GO Belfast |
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