Independent theatre and film producer Pat Moylan has been announced as the new chairwoman of the Arts Council. Minister Martin Cullen announced her appointment, and that of six other members of the government agency for the arts, this afternoon.
The six new members of the Arts Council are: Ms Louise Donlon, director of Dunamaise Arts Centre in Portlaoise; Mr Paul Johnson, dancer, choreographer and chief executive of Dance Ireland; Ms Fiona Kearney, director of the Glucksman Gallery in Cork; Ms Sheelagh O'Neill, former marketing and tourism professional; Ms Caroline Senior, artistic director of Garter Lane Arts Centre, Waterford; Ms Orlaith McBride, director of the National Association for Youth Drama, has been reappointed.
Ms Moylan was artistic director of Andrews Lane Theatre for 18 years and has a long and impressive track record as a producer, with huge commercial successes such as Alone It Stands, Twelve Angry Men, Stones in His Pockets, I Keano, Alone it Stands, and Tom Crean — Antarctic Explorer with her company Lane Productions.
Ms Moylan said to the Irish Times this afternoon that the chair's role is "a big challenge, particularly in the current situation." But she's going into it with her eyes wide open, she said. "I know the situation. There's wonderful talent in this country and it needs to be supported. It is a huge honour and I was very touched at being offered the position. I hope I can do it justice."
The news comes after a long delay, and ends months of speculation about who would be appointed, particularly to the position of chairperson. There have been seven vacancies on the 13-member council since August 11th, when several members' terms finished, including that of former chairwoman Olive Braiden.