Abbey Theatre – Looking West

An engaging panel discussion, where past inspiration meets future collaboration between the Clifden Arts Festival and Abbey Theatre, with our esteemed guests: Caitríona McLaughlin, Bríd Ní Neachtain, and Ian Toner.

Caitríona McLaughlin, Artistic Director of The Abbey Theatre since 2021, has directed notable plays like iGirl, Translations, The Weir, and Tartuffe. Previously, as Associate Director (2017-2020), she led successful productions, including Citysong (ITTA nomination), On Raftery’s Hill (ITTA Best Director award), Josephine K and the Algorithms, and Two Pints. She collaborated with various theatre and opera companies in Ireland and internationally.

Bríd Ní Neachtain’s stellar performances on stage and in film have earned her welldeserved accolades, including an Irish Times Theatre Award and an IFTA for Best Actress (RÓISE & FRANK). As a former member of the Abbey Theatre company, she brings a wealth of experience from her extensive national and international stage career.

Ian Toner,an award-winning playwright (Stuart Parker Trust Award nominee, Fishamble New Writing Award 2016, BBC Radio Northern Ireland Award 2017), television writer, and versatile actor has graced screens and stages alike with his talent. Ian was a recipient of the Clifden Arts Festival/Abbey Theatre Artist in Residence Award in 2022.

Sponsored by: Dr Frances Meagher