Funding for Dean Crowe Theatre refurbishment

The Dean Crowe Theatre and Arts Centre in Athlone is to receive over €100,000 in capital funding.

Longford/Westmeath TD, Kevin ‘Boxer’ Moran this afternoon confirmed that the centre in Athlone will receive €113,000 under the Capital investment scheme for arts and culture centres, expected to be announced tomorrow.

The theatre had submitted an application to the Department of Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs for the Arts and Culture Capital Scheme 2016 and Deputy Moran said he is delighted with the news that theatre has been approved for funding.

“The theatre remains one of Athlone’s pillar resources and as such, must be supported so that it remains at the heart of community activity in the town,” said Deputy Moran.

“The Dean Crowe Theatre is a dedicated, purpose-built arts and culture facility in need of investment and the funding is aimed at ensuring the preservation of such venues,” said Deputy Moran. “It is important that existing venues such as the Dean Crowe are refurbished on a regular basis so that they can continue to benefit from increased audience numbers.”

“From 1937, when it was used as a community hall, the Dean Crowe Theatre is now graced with modern theatrical facilities, providing an entertaining and varied programme of events throughout the year including the All-Ireland Drama Festival, the latter staged in Athlone since the mid-1950s.”