Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media Catherine Martin TD has launched a late night museum pilot scheme in support of the nighttime economy.
Details
The "After Hours" strand builds on the learnings from last year's pilot Night-Time Economy Support Scheme and aims to support small museums and galleries across the country to open later, programme new live events and encourage diversity of offering in small towns and villages across the country.
Members of the Museum Standards Programme for Ireland (MSPI) and the Irish Museum Association can apply for up to €10,000 in funding to host late night events this year. Events can include live music, live DJ, dancing (performative or participatory), exhibitions, poetry readings, comedy shows theatre, film, live podcasts, storytelling, classes and well-being initiatives. National cultural institutions can also avail of this funding to build on the success of last year's later openings and events, which included the National Concert Hall's sold-out Haunted Dancehall music festival.
Statements By Minister Martin
Speaking at the launch of the scheme in the Little Museum of Dublin, Minister Martin said, "International Museum Day is being marked this week and we celebrate how Museums and Galleries throughout the country are the beating heart of culture in our communities. They are the keepers of our history, reflect our cultural identity and provide a space for creativity which future generations can enjoy. They play a vital role in smaller towns and villages supporting open conversations, promoting positive mental health and are inclusive to all. A thriving nighttime economy is valuable to communities and I would like to encourage local museums and galleries to look at their spaces through a late night lens. This support announced today aims to welcome new audiences through a variety of innovative programming and activities. Bringing life to longer evenings for both communities and tourists alike."
Minister Martin also took the opportunity to welcome the recruitment process now underway in five of the nine locations selected for a nighttime advisor, which the department is supporting, saying, "I welcome the progress made across the five local authorities who have now kick-started the recruitment process for new nighttime advisors. Thank you to the teams in Cork City, Dublin City, Kilkenny, Drogheda and Limerick who have announced the recruitment of these vital posts and I expect the remaining four, Galway City, Longford, Buncrana and Sligo, to get underway shortly. These posts will bring much needed strategic support, local engagement and drive for a more vibrant and diverse night-time economy. Schemes such as the one being announced today will be a great vehicle for these advisors as they work to develop ambitious and exciting plans for their areas."
Read More: €885,000 In Funding Announced For Culture Ireland
© 2023 Hospitality Ireland – your source for the latest industry news. Article by Dave Simpson. Click subscribe to sign up for the Hospitality Ireland print edition.
