The Sandymount Community Centre (SCC) is buzzing with a wide range of activities these days – there is something there for everyone in our community and all are welcome! Please do drop in! Formerly known as the Iris Charles Centre and based in Newbridge Ave, around the corner from the Aviva Stadium, the Centre not only houses a large number of social, educational and exercise programmes but also offers rooms to rent at competitive rates – see https://sandymountcommunitycentre.ie/
Sandymount Culture Programme
The Sandymount Culture Programme (SCP) was established as a sub-committee of SCC in December 2022. The aim of the Sandymount Culture Programme is to bring a broad range of cultural events including drama, music, poetry, dance etc. for the enjoyment and education of residents of Sandymount and the surrounding areas. Our January performance featured the real banshee – Sheila Flitton from the Oscar nominated film The Banshees of Inisherin!
In addition, to the established artists supported by Dublin City Council (DCC), the Culture Programme Committee wishes to offer an opportunity for local and up-and-coming artists to perform and hone their skills in our supportive performance environment. Last year our events included performances by local talent e.g. Poetry and Spoken Word, Trad Night, Ringsend Rock Group, and a Christmas-themed song and story.
The Committee shares a belief that artists need to be financially rewarded for their work, as are all other members of society. Thus where possible as a committee, when artists are not supported by DCC, we aim to provide them with some financial support (even if this is only a stipend until such time as we have some finances available). A donation box and grants help fund this element of the programme. Happily, the SCP were awarded a small grant under the Tom Clarke Bridge Grant Scheme 2023 which will help us purchase a modular ‘stage’ and support local artists.
Performances take place the first Friday of each month, 7.30pm to 8.30pm. Admission is free.
The Sandymount Hotel are valued supporters of the SCP. They provide complimentary teas and coffees at all our performances. We are very grateful for this support as it provides welcome refreshment while people socialise post performances. Such socialising is important in fostering a sense of inclusion and belonging which are key elements of the Mission of the SCC.
Brainstorm
Another exciting development results from our collaboration with Dublin City Arts Office of DCC. The Arts Office provides support for us to run a workshop to brainstorm on ‘The arts in our neighbourhood – where do we go from here?’. All those interested are invited to have their say. If you would like to attend this workshop, please contact one of the Committee or email culture@sandymountcommunitycentre.ie
Keep an eye on the Sandymount Community Centre website and social media for developments – the workshop will take place during Spring 2024 (date to be confirmed).
See programme of upcoming Events below.
