Organisers of the Strabane Drama Festival have expressed their disappointment after a water leak at the Alley Theatre forced the cancellation of this year’s event, which would have celebrated its 40th anniversary.
The Alley Theatre, the festival’s traditional home, is set to close from 25 September for approximately six months after a “substantial” leak was discovered, making it impossible to host performances.
Festival director Ciara McCay explained that alternative venues, including the Melvin Sports Complex and a local church hall, were considered. However, the estimated £15,000 cost to convert the spaces into suitable theatres was beyond the festival’s budget.
Speaking to My Newspaper Radio Foyle’s North West Today, Ms McCay said the festival is “one of the main cultural events in the town,” attracting audiences from across the island. “Losing the festival for the town as a whole, for the audience, the whole community, is a huge blow,” she added.
The festival usually runs over nine nights in March, featuring groups from across Ireland. Rescheduling was not possible, as it is part of an all-Ireland competition with fixed dates. With applications for the national competition opening in October, organisers had no time to secure a new venue.
Ms McCay said converting alternative venues like the Melvin Sports Complex would have required significant work and disrupted local sports groups who regularly use the facility.
Derry City and Strabane District Council (DCSDC) described the theatre’s closure as “deeply regrettable” but emphasised that extensive repairs were necessary. A council spokesperson confirmed that while some events would be cancelled during the closure, efforts would be made to minimise disruption.
The council also clarified that while they suggested alternative venues, it was ultimately the organisers’ responsibility to secure replacements. A report on the closure’s impact is due before the council’s business and culture committee. Public refunds will be issued for any cancelled performances.
