Paddy Farrelly is a highly experienced theatre professional with over 20 years of involvement in acting, directing, production, and lighting design. As Technical Manager at the Ramor Theatre in Virginia, he plays a key role in shaping both the artistic and technical aspects of live performance. A graduate of University College Dublin, Paddy has an MA in Theatre Practice & Performance, reflecting his deep academic and practical engagement with theatre. His extensive career in amateur drama has seen him excel across multiple disciplines, earning recognition at the Confined Drama Finals on numerous occasions. A crowning achievement came in 2013 when he directed Mark Doherty’s “Trad” for Millrace Drama Group, winning the prestigious Claregalway Trophy.

In addition to his production and directing work, Paddy is an accomplished lighting designer, with credits including Calendar Girls (Ramor Players), At the Black Pig’s Dyke (Culture Cavan), Stolen Child (Ramor Players), Cartographers Pen (Town Hall Cavan) , and The Whispering Chair (Livin Dred) Robin & Dawn (Bewleys Café Theatre) among many others. His versatility across genres—from contemporary drama to classic works—highlights his keen artistic vision and technical skill.

Since 2022, Paddy has been a member of The Association of Drama Adjudicators (ADA), bringing his wealth of experience to festivals across Ireland. He has adjudicated both one-act and full-length festivals in all four provinces, offering insightful critique and encouragement to amateur theatre groups nationwide.

Beyond the stage, Paddy has been an innovator in the theatre community. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he founded and produced the ADCI Lockdown Conversations, fostering connection and discussion among artists during a challenging time.

This is Paddy’s first visit to South Wicklow Drama Festival as adjudicator, but not his first time in Carnew as he directed Sillan Players as competitors on many occasions. He looks forward to a feast of theatre and meeting and engaging with groups and you the audience alike over the week.

Her many film credits include Four Mothers, The Others, Yes Man and Waking Ned Devine. Television audiences around the world know her from acclaimed series such as Lost, Star Trek, and Brotherhood and numerous guest appearances across major productions.

Theatre credits include The Ferryman and Ulysses in Nighttown, both performed on Broadway, for which she received Tony Award Nominations for Best Actress in a Featured Role. She also appeared in A Christmas Carol at  The Gate Theatre in Dublin.

Fionnula has received multiple awards and honours for her contribution to the arts, including the IFTA Lifetime Achievement Award in 2012. She continues to be celebrated for her powerful performances and her enduring connection to Irish storytelling and theatre.

We are honoured to welcome Fionnula Flanagan as she officially opens this year’s festival.