'There is huge potential here' - Leitrim theatre appoints new local creative director

The Glens Arts Centre in Manorhamilton has appointed Laura Mahon as its new Director, as the organisation prepares to celebrate its 30th anniversary this May.

Mahon brings over 20 years’ experience working across arts, education and community practice in the northwest of Ireland.

She most recently served as Visual Arts & Education Manager at The Dock in Carrick-on-Shannon. Over more than a decade she developed a year-round multidisciplinary programme spanning visual arts, film, music and digital media, increasing audience participation by approximately 35%.

She also co-founded Sligo CoderDojo, supporting over 120 young people to develop digital skills, and has worked with organisations including The Model Arts Centre in Sligo. Having previously lived in Dromahair and now based in Sligo, she brings a deep understanding of the region’s creative landscape.

Originally from the Galway–Roscommon border, she grew up in a farming community, an early influence that has shaped her career. A Fine Art graduate, Mahon has worked as a curator, creative producer and project manager, with a strong focus on regional arts.

For Mahon, the move to The Glens is both professional and personal. "I am absolutely delighted to work with the board and team at The Glens. I’ve experienced The Glens as an audience member, and there’s something very special about it - the intimacy and the connection between artists and audiences. When the opportunity came up, I didn’t hesitate,” she stated.

Looking ahead, Mahon plans to strengthen the residency programme, support the development of new theatre and live performance, expand youth engagement, and deepen local partnerships, while further positioning The Glens at a national and cross-border level.

"There is huge potential here, and I’m excited about what the next chapter can bring."

Board Chair Nóirín Clancy welcomed the appointment. “Laura brings a powerful combination of experience, vision and commitment to regional arts. We look forward to working with her as we enter the next 30 years of The Glens Arts Centre," she commented.

As part of its 30th anniversary celebrations, The Glens Arts Centre will host a Gala concert on Saturday 16th May at the Clayton Hotel in Sligo.

The evening will feature an exceptional lineup including Eleanor Shanley, Seamus O’Rourke, members of NoCrows and the Ó Snodaigh brothers (Kíla).

The night will also feature Rabbit Riots, Exit Does Theatre and Splódar, the centre’s resident bilingual theatre company, as well as Dee Armstrong’s Rock School.

Vincent Woods will be MC for the night.

The Gala will be a celebration of the legacy of The Glens while also supporting its future development. Funds raised will go directly towards programmes with artists, young people and the wider community, helping to sustain and grow the work of the centre in the years ahead.

Tickets are €65 per person or €650 for a table of ten, and are available via www.theglenscentre.com. The team and board at The Glens Arts Centre is encouraging the public to come together for what promises to be a very special evening and to support the next chapter of the centre.