Mayo Cultural Companions attend network meet up event

Members of the Mayo Cultural Companions Network attended a meet up event on Wednesday, September 30, at the Ellison Hotel, Castlebar.

The event’s focus was on the findings from the previous Connect Café held last May. The session comprised of a short presentation to the network by Mayo County Council’s assistant arts officer, Jennifer Mongan. The presentation included proposals for communicating with the network members going forward, along with ideas for events for 2027, such as Bealtaine 2027.

Following the presentation, there was a brief Q & A and discussion with the members present on the findings. The discussion centred around methods of communication going forward, recommendations from the members and the role of network volunteers.

After a short break, David Hope and Darran Bourke from Music and Health Ireland joined the group and regaled them with their trademark tunes and stories. There was lots of laughter and singing including a lovely rendition of Percy French’s ‘The West Clare Railway (Are Ye Right There Michael)’ by Oliver.

The meet up provided an opportunity for attendees to create connections with others and created a strong sense of belonging and community. Conversations highlighted the importance of being part of a community and reinforced the positive impact that arts and cultural participation can have on wellbeing as we age.

Mayo County Council Arts Service extends its appreciation to all who attended and contributed to the success of the event.

Cultural Companions is an Age and Opportunity Arts Initiative comprising a network of older people interested in arts and culture who can attend events together as a group.

Mayo Cultural Companions aim is to provide increased opportunities for older people to engage with Mayo’s vibrant arts and cultural scene. Membership is free.

Members will receive a regular calendar of events. Members will independently book and pay for those events they wish to attend. The members meet up at an allocated time prior to an event and attend together, usually with a social get together built in.

Those interested in joining Cultural Companions are asked to contact the Mayo County Council Arts Service to request a membership form.

Forms are also available here. Further information is available by phoning 094 9064387 or by emailing mayoarts@mayococo.ie