Open to learners across all 20 Galway-Roscommon Education Training Board (GRETB ) second?level schools, the competition embraces an impressive range of artistic disciplines including fine art, photography, poetry, short story writing, drama, traditional music, sean?nós singing and dancing, and contemporary dance groups.
Entries are welcomed in both Irish and English, reflecting GRETB’s commitment to bilingualism and cultural expression.
The breadth of participating schools – stretching from island communities to Connemara, Galway city and county, and as far east as Elphin in Roscommon – brings together a uniquely diverse group of young artists.
GRETB chief executive David Leahy describes the celebration as an opportunity to unite learners from contrasting linguistic, cultural, rural, and urban backgrounds. He noted that the arts serve as a powerful bridge, enabling students to engage with one another through shared creativity, respect, and self?expression.
This year’s celebration culminates in a special performance and awards day on Friday, March 20, at Galway Community College. Category winners will be recognised, and selected performances and readings showcased, to highlight the extraordinary talent emerging from GRETB schools.
Director of Schools Sinéad Farragher emphasised the deeper purpose of the event, noting that participation in the arts encourages students to affirm their identities, and grow as both learners and individuals.
The GRETB Arts Celebration continues to strengthen connections across its school communities, ensuring that every student has a platform to share their voice and artistic vision.
