A Community Effort Like No Other
This wasn’t just an opera – it was a creative collaboration that united professional artists and local talent under one Big Top tent in the heart of Ballaghaderreen. Over 30 local children rehearsed for months alongside professional singers, a conductor, and seven accomplished musicians, culminating in two sold-out performances on August 2nd and 3rd, 2025. Each show welcomed 140 enthusiastic audience members, proving that opera can be accessible, inclusive, and deeply engaging.
The cast featured exceptional voices, including Matt Mannion (Father Owl), Catherine Donnelly (Mother Owl), and Sarah Luttrell (Orion the Cat), supported by a stellar string ensemble. Together, they created an unforgettable experience that blended world-class artistry with community spirit.
Why This Project Matters
This opera is a perfect example of how Creative Communities funding empowers projects that align with the Roscommon Culture and Creativity Strategy 2023–2027. The strategy champions:
• Participation and Inclusion – Children and families were at the heart of this project, ensuring creativity was accessible to all.
• Collaboration – Professional artists worked hand-in-hand with local musicians and volunteers, fostering skills and confidence.
• Celebrating Identity and Place – By staging the event in Ballaghaderreen and weaving local involvement into every note, the opera strengthened cultural pride and community bonds.
Looking Ahead
The success of The Owl Who Was Afraid of the Dark has sparked conversations about future performances in Boyle and Roscommon town, ensuring the creative ripple effect continues across the county.
This project is more than a performance – it’s a testament to what happens when creativity is placed at the heart of public life. It shows that opera, often seen as an elite art form, can become a joyful, inclusive experience that brings people together.
Roscommon County Council, through the Creative Ireland Programme, is proud to support initiatives like this – projects that light up our communities, nurture talent, and make creativity part of everyday life.
