ARDS ARTS CENTRE

Ards Arts Centre takes a proactive role in the development of an arts programme to increase the quality and accessibility of the arts within the Borough.

Ards Arts is responsible for programming arts events throughout the Borough in collaboration with artists, arts organisations, other agencies and community groups, for the benefit of all those who live, work or visit Ards.

Facilities at the centre include:

• 2 Galleries
• Small Performance space (up to 100 seats, suitable for chamber works)
• Small Meeting Rooms available for hire
• Workshops/Studio Class Spaces

Several new art initiatives are currently being developed including:

• Cross discipline workshops addressing identity for different age groups
• Creation of a Sculpture Trail connecting isolated villages in the Peninsula
• A Hands-On Puppet Festival for children

Ards Arts has a programme of performances, dance, drama and music at venues throughout the Borough running from January to June in parallel to the exhibition programme housed at the Arts Centre.

Tickets can be pre-booked through the Arts Centre booking line (+44) 028 9181 0803 and most events cost approximately £6.00 per person or £3.00 concession.

A second programme of events run from September to December, including the Ards Annual International Guitar Festival. In addition arts and crafts classes for adults and children run throughout the year.

Anyone interested in discussing these or other projects can contact:

Emily Walsh

Town Hall Arts Centre
Conway Square
Newtownards
BT23 4DB
Northern Ireland

Tel: 028 9181 0803
Fax: 028 9182 3131
E-mail arts@ards-council.gov.uk