Local dancers to perform at unveiling of Lloyd Park bandstand in Tullamore
A bandstand that has been installed at Lloyd Town Park in Tullamore will be officially opened next weekend with a contemporary dance performance that was specially commissioned to respond to the new amenity space.
The free event will take place on Saturday, February 24, at 1.30pm, and will involve a performance by members of the Tullamore-based Donlon Dance Company, who developed the choreography with an ensemble of young dancers from the locality.
Offaly County Council said the performance "will explore the interplay between water, outdoor space and the connection between water and play".
"The event will provide a great opportunity to see the new public amenity showcased in an arts setting, whilst the dancers have the possibility to explore how dance can be created in a site-specific manner, developing their new creation to respond to the bespoke space," the council added in a press statement.
Along with the development of the new bandstand, accessible toilets and a caretakers' office have been installed in the park.
The new facilities are designed to help make the outdoor public space more suitable for hosting arts and culture events and festivals.
"This project will enhance the outdoor space in the park, facilitate year-round use, and is a place-making project that supports cultural endeavour and enables safe social activity," said the council.
"The space will be made available for the use of arts and cultural activities and to arts and cultural organisations and individuals. Interested parties should contact Tullamore Municipal District Office for further details."
The Cathaoirleach of Tullamore Municipal District, Cllr Declan Harvey, will officially open the bandstand and other new facilities on February 24.
"Lloyd Park is a wonderful inclusive community amenity, suitable for young and old, and I am delighted that Tullamore Municipal District Members proactively work with the council to enhance this five-acre site from an environmental and creative point of view," said Cllr Harvey.
"I hope our local and wider community enjoy this new attraction. Members of the public are welcome to attend the event, which is free to the public. It's a great opportunity to come together to celebrate another space to create in Tullamore."
Director of Services and Manager of Tullamore Municipal District, Tom Shanahan, added: "The council wish to thank Healthmatic Ltd, as supplier of the new modular accessible toilets and caretaker office, Larkin Engineering as supplier of the bandstand, and Ellsport Ltd who carried out the civil works."