The volunteer team behind an artistic hub in the south of the island have been recognised for their contribution to Manx culture.
The Erin Arts Centre has been nominated in the Manx Cultural Champion category of the Isle of Man Newspapers’ Pride in Mann awards by Port Erin resident and centre volunteer Martin Norbury.
Originally founded in 1971, the centre has received international recognition as the home of a number of prestigious events including the the Mananan International Festival of Music and the Arts.
Meanwhile specialist competitions such as the Barbirolli International Oboe Festival and the Lionel Tertis International Viola Festival have attracted musicians from as far afield as China and Australia to Port Erin.
The main auditorium can accommodate instrumental recitals, small orchestral ensembles, choral concerts, opera, theatre and film showings, while a dedicated gallery space hosts numerous exhibitions.
In 2014 alone the centre hosted 107 different events, performances, exhibitions, films and recitals.
Mr Norbury said: ‘Starting from an old ‘tin tab’ Methodist chapel they have created a thriving arts centre and, through relentless fundraising, have continuously developed and expanded their offering.
‘As well as broader recognition for Isle of Man culture through international festivals and competitions, the centre has put the Isle of Man on a global artistic stage and brought many thousands of musicians, performers and audiences to the Isle of Man for over 40 years.’
Responding to the nomination, centre director John Bethell MBE said: ‘As a founder of the Erin Arts Centre I am so grateful that the centre has been nominated for the Cultural Champion award.
‘There are so many volunteers who keep both the building in order and ensure the smooth day-to-day running of events. Without their support the number of events and functions simply could not happen.’
Pride in Mann is sponsored by the Steam Packet,
