History

South Wicklow Drama Festival was founded in 2004 under the auspices of the Amateur Drama Council of Ireland. The first Festival was held in St. Brigid’s Hall, Carnew from the 13th – 20th March 2005. This first Festival was opened by Carnew born, Loughlin Deegan, (Playwright/Artistic Director of The Lir, National Academy of Dramatic Art, Trinity College).

The Festival has awakened and re-kindled an interest and love of theatre in the area. Over the years the Festival has hosted a wide variety of plays, performed by talented Drama Groups from all over the country. The Festival has enjoyed many packed houses and there is no doubt that theatre is alive and well in Carnew. Many of the Open and Confined groups who have participated in the South Wicklow Drama Festival have gone on to win at the All Ireland Finals.

The committee of South Wicklow Drama Festival were delighted to host the 2018 All Ireland Confined Drama Finals from 13th – 21st April 2018 and held a wide of range of fringe events to coincide with the festival.