The Civic is delighted to have secured a grant of €132,280 and to be one of 59 organisations to have been supported through the Government’s €9 million investment into arts and cultural centres.
The grant will be used to upgrade the building, including the main auditorium, seating, technical capabilities and reception area.
Michael Barker-Caven, Artistic Director of The Civic: “We are absolutely delighted to have received this funding as part of the Government’s Creative Ireland programme, it was a very competitive process.
“It’s a real sign of the important work that goes on here at the Civic and is in line with new challenges set out which aim to make theatre more accessible, more enjoyable and more cutting edge.”
He added: “The theatre is not far off 20 years and times have changed.
“We would like to upgrade our main auditorium and improve it with new seating, which would allow us to use the space differently depending on the production.
“There has also been a lot of technical advances in the past 20 years, so we are also planning to upgrade technical aspects of the theatre, such as lighting.
“We are also hoping to develop the foyer and box office area to make them more user friendly and engaging for people when they come into the theatre.
“It’s all about making the building more attractive and comfortable for visitors and every Euro granted will go towards the building and enhancing the visitor experience.”
Speaking on the funding allocation, the Minister for the Arts, Heritage, Regional, rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, Heather Humphreys TD said: “This €9 million announcement is the most significant investment in regional arts and cultural centres in a decade.
“The Creative Ireland Programme places a focus on investing in our cultural infrastructure, because high quality infrastructure is critical for a vibrant arts and culture sector, which in turn underpins social cohesion and supports sustainable economic growth.”
