Irish language enthusiasts in Galway City and the surrounding areas have been invited to a public meeting next month with a view towards establishing a new amateur drama group in the city.

The aim of the meeting at Áras na nGael on Dominick Street on Wednesday, June 18 (7pm), is to bring people together with the aim of establishing a new Irish language drama society for adults living in and around Galway.

The meeting is being organised by Gael Forbairt na Gaillimhe (Áras na nGael) and three Irish Language Planning Officers in Gaeltacht areas around Galway (An Bruach Thoir, Gaeilge ABC, and Gaeltacht an Eachréidh) in response to queries regarding the viability of an amateur drama group in the city.

Experienced actor and producer Seamus Hughes, who is from the city, will be on hand to guide attendees as to the steps needed to set up a new group from scratch.

Experience is not required and a lot of roles are envisaged for enthusiasts, including producers, actors, stage managers, sound technicians, make-up artists, set construction, designers, general assistants, and stage assistants.

“You do not need to have experience,” says Micheál Mac Aoidh, development officer with Áras na nGael. “We envisage that there will be roles for everyone, either on stage or behind the stage. All you need is an enthusiasm for the Irish language and for amateur drama. We will have a special welcome for Irish language learners and for people from outside the city.

The meeting at Aras na nGael is being supported by the Irish Language Officers at An Bruach Thoir, Gaeilge ABC (Bearna-Knocnacarra), and Gaeltacht an Eachreidh (Claregalway, Carnmore, and Annaghdown) who see a new Irish language drama group as a fun way for people to practice and improve their Irish in a friendly and welcoming environment.

Everyone is welcome. All you need is an interest in drama and in the Irish language!