Cultural strategist to open new chapter at Laois arts hubs in Portlaoise

The process of integrating two publicly funded venues for arts and entertainment has reached a significant milestone with the confirmation of the recruitment of a new CEO to run both.

The Dunamaise Arts Centre in Portlaoise has announced the appointment of Ciara O Connell as its new Chief Executive Officer, saying the move marks the "beginning of a new chapter" for the organisation as it expands its work across both Dunamaise Arts Centre and The Fort Protector, Laois’ outdoor performance and event space.

A statement issued to the Leinster Express / Laois Live said that with extensive experience leading arts organisations and developing cultural strategies across Ireland and the UK, Ms O Connell brings a strong record in arts leadership, programme innovation and community engagement.

"Her appointment signals a renewed focus on invigorating programming, deepening community connections and strengthening Dunamaise's position as a centre of creative excellence in the Midlands and Ireland," said the statement.

Ms O Connell, who is Waterford-based, also commented.

“I am thrilled to join the team at Dunamaise Arts Centre at such an exciting and pivotal moment in its story. With the centre’s deep roots in the local community and the addition of The Fort Protector, there is a real opportunity to expand what the arts can mean for Laois creatively, socially and economically. I am looking forward to working with the team, artists and partners to build on its already strong foundations and shape a vibrant, inclusive and ambitious future,” she said.

The Board of Laois Arts Theatre Company, which oversees both venues, welcomed Ciara’s appointment, noting that her vision and leadership will play an essential role in the continued development of the organisation and the wider cultural life of the Midlands and is a significant step in shaping the future of Dunamaise and The Fort Protector. MORE BELOW PICTURE.

Java Light performing at the Youth Work Ireland Laois Electric Youth contest in the Dunamaise Arts Centre in 2025. Pic: Alf Harvey

The new CEO describes herself in LinkedIn as a leader in arts-led place-making and community impact as well as being a specialist in policy, festivals and funding.

Based in Waterford, she most recently led Curated Place’s Ireland office and has worked throughout Ireland’s cultural sector for the past fifteen years. Curated Space is an arts-led cultural production agency. 

"I’m a cultural strategist and senior creative producer with over a decade of experience leading high-impact, multidisciplinary arts initiatives across Ireland, the UK, and Europe.

"My work spans festival direction, policy development, and strategic fundraising, with a track record of securing high-value funding, building sustainable partnerships, and delivering inclusive, legacy-driven cultural programmes.

"I lead with purpose and integrity, bringing together artists, institutions, and communities to activate public spaces and reshape cultural access. I’ve held CEO, Artistic Director, and Senior Producer roles, and am passionate about transforming how the arts engage people, shape cities, and reflect contemporary life," says her LinkedIn profile.

Ms O Connell specialises in festivals, music and theatre has run multiple venues as owner and proprietor, strategically led Waterford’s Summer in the City festival and Púca Festival through a step change in activity and has well-developed relationships with Arts Council Ireland, Culture Ireland and Fáilte Ireland.

She is a graduate of UCD, Dún Laoghaire Institute of Art, Design and Technology and Waterford Institute of Techonology. MORE BELOW PHOTO

Enjoying the Dooley Brothers at The Fort in at the Old Fort Quarter Festival in 2024. Pic: Alf Harvey

The Leinster Express Laois Live reported on the recruitment process in early 2025. The job spec for the newly created position said the role requires an exceptional leader with a passion for the arts, strong management skills, and a proven ability to deliver on organisational objectives.

It said the successful applicant would get a four-year, fixed-term contract that may be extended, subject to continued funding. The salary is €62,500 per annum.

The Dunamaise Arts Centre celebrated its 25th anniversary in 2024. It is located on the site of the Old County Gaol, built in 1789. The premises is owned by the Laois County Council and is funded by Laois County Council, the Arts Council and revenue from shows and events.

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The Fort Outdoor Performance & Events Space is a Laois County Council-developed venue which opened in 2024, supported by the Urban Regeneration and Development Fund, the Department of Housing, Local Government & Heritage, and the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media.

It was built as part of the development of the Old Fort Quarter to host cultural performances, concerts, theatrical productions, and community events. It has a capacity of 2,000 standing and 500 seated guests.

Ms O'Connell takes up her role in October.

The Dunamaise Arts Centre does not have a manager at present following the departure of Michelle de Forge during the summer.