Audiences have plenty to look forward to in early 2026 at Down Arts Centre with the roll out of the January – April Programme, full of great shows and familiar favourites. Begin the year with a season that stirs the senses. Down Arts Centre is proud to unveil a vibrant programme of live performances, exhibitions, classes and community events, featuring celebrated artists, powerful stories and unforgettable nights out.
A New Season of Culture, Creativity and Connection at Down Arts Centre, Downpatrick
Audiences can look forward to the new Down Arts Centre Programme, featuring the electrifying return of The Ronnie Greer Band, the atmospheric storytelling of Eve O’Mahony’s The Last Witch: Bridget Cleary, and a packed comedy lineup including Jake O’Kane Needs New Teeth, Give My Head Peace Live, and Stephen Large Having It Large.
Unmissable Live Performances at Down Arts Centre
Music and theatre take centre stage this season. Enjoy soulful Irish folk with Gerry Tully’s Christy Moore Songbook, the timeless sound of The 4 Of Us, and the raw energy of Stray Gaiters. Audiences can revel in the definitive Van Morrison tribute from Celtic Soul, or immerse themselves in the stirring film-and-music double bill From a Forest to a Fiddle with Zoë Conway and John McIntyre. Laughter is guaranteed with the return of Maggie’s Menopause and the beautifully observed storytelling of The Bench.
Down Arts Centre Workshops, Classes & Creative Experiences
Explore something new through our extensive range of weekly classes and one-day workshops. Visitors can take part in Tai Chi, Gentle Hatha Yoga, and creative courses including pottery with Leontia Haldenby and Áine McKenna, and painting with Gemma Blakely, Kieron Black and Martin McParland. Families will love the fun and confidence-building Vibrant Voices sessions, while wellness seekers can enjoy a series of restorative Sound Spa Experiences with Tessa Ann.
Movies in the Mornings, Film Screenings for Every Mood
Our Movies in the Mornings series returns with cinema classics and heartwarming favourites. Settle in for Out of Africa, The Notebook, Into the West and Chocolat, each offering a perfect morning escape. Additional special screenings, including From a Forest to a Fiddle, blend film with live performance for a rich and memorable experience.
Exhibitions & Gallery Highlights
March welcomes the reopening of the Down Arts Centre gallery with Tommy Barr’s Our Woodlands, celebrating iconic trees and landscapes through a unique symbolic lens. In April, acclaimed Belfast artist Dawn Crothers brings The Snail Artist to Downpatrick with an enchanting exhibition and book-signing event designed especially for families and young visitors.
Community, Creativity & Collaboration
The season is enriched by our monthly Down Arts Collective, welcoming artists and creative practitioners across Newry, Mourne and Down to connect, reflect and share ideas. Our Theatre Company in Residence, Dramability, returns with their joyful Stages Café on St Patrick’s Day and continues to celebrate 35 years of creativity and inclusion within the local community.
Your Cultural Home This Season
With unforgettable performances, hands-on creativity, family-friendly events and inspiring exhibitions, the January - April 2026 season invites visitors to explore, unwind and feel part of something vibrant and welcoming.
Book online at www.downartscentre.com or call 0330 137 4014.
