The remarkable contributions of Downings playwright Francie Cullen were celebrated by Donegal County Council this week at a Mayor’s Reception, hosted by Cllr Kevin Bradley, Mayor of the Letterkenny and Milford Municipal District, along with other elected members.
The event, held at the Letterkenny Public Services Centre on Thursday, was a tribute to the renowned playwright and director’s two decades of dedication to the preservation and promotion of Irish language and culture in Donegal.
Guests, public represenatives and council officials at the Mayor’s reception to honour Proinsias Ó Cuilinn for his work with the Irish Language, Culture and Drama in the Public Service Centre Letterkenny on Thursday last. Photo Clive Wasson
Francie made his mark in 2003 by writing his inaugural Irish drama for the Rosguill Gaeltacht residents. This marked the inception of the Aisteiri Mhiobhnaigh group, which, under his direction, achieved recognition and success, notably at An Fhéile Náisiúnta. Over the years, Francie has penned and directed some 14 plays, showcasing his talent not only locally but also in cities like Dublin, Belfast, Castlebar, and Glasgow.
The proposal for Francie’s formal council recognition was put forth by Cllr Donal Coyle in May of last year. Through his creative works, including dramas for children, Francie Cullen has not only garnered numerous writing awards but has also left an indelible mark on the landscape of Irish cultural expression.
See photos from the event here, by Clive Wasson:
At the Mayor’s reception to honour Proinsias Ó Cuilinn for his work with the Irish Language, Culture and Drama in the Public Service Centre Letterkenny on Thursday last are seated from left are Olivia Cullen, Proinsias Ó Cuilinn and Aisling Cullen. Back from left are Teresa Crossan, Bridget Duffy, Anne Byrne and Mary Cullen. Photo Clive Wasson
At the Mayor’s reception to honour Proinsias Ó Cuilinn for his work with the Irish Language, Culture and Drama in the Public Service Centre Letterkenny on Thursday last are seated from left Cllr. Donal Coyle, Mayor Kevin Bradley, Proinsias Ó Cuilinn and Liam Ward Director of Services Donegal County Council. Back from left are Councillors, Jimmy Kavanagh, Pauric McGarvey, Michael McBride, Ciaran Brogan, Gerry McMonagle and Donal Mandy Kelly. Photo Clive Wasson
Proinsias Ó Cuilinn at the Mayor’s reception to honour for his work with the Irish Language, Culture and Drama in the Public Service Centre Letterkenny on Thursday last with Anna McLaughlin, Laura NicGiollabhríde, Aoife Nic Coniomaire, Fiona Pasoma and Sally Uí Ghallachoir Photo Clive Wasson
Noreen goulding speaking at the Mayor’s eception to honour Proinsias Ó Cuilinn for his work with the Irish Language, Culture and Drama in the Public Service Centre Letterkenny on Thursday last. Photo Clive Wasson
Some of the crowd at the Mayor’s reception to honour Proinsias Ó Cuilinn for his work with the Irish Language, Culture and Drama in the Public Service Centre Letterkenny on Thursday last. Photo Clive Wasson
Maura McClafferty, Hugh McClafferty, John McBride and Cllr. Michael McBride at the Mayor’s eception to honour Proinsias Ó Cuilinn for his work with the Irish Language, Culture and Drama in the Public Service Centre Letterkenny on Thursday last. Photo Clive Wasson
Joe Cullen with Cllr. Donal Coyle at the Mayor’s reception to honour Proinsias Ó Cuilinn for his work with the Irish Language, Culture and Drama in the Public Service Centre Letterkenny on Thursday last. Photo Clive Wasson