Painting in the Park

Hundreds attended a sunny and delightful day of creativity at “Painting in the Park,” on Saturday 1st June, inspired by the beloved Sondheim Musical “Sunday in the Park with George.” This was a one-of-a-kind event blending community picnic atmosphere with outdoor theatre, live music, and the joy of painting.

Painting in the Park, brought people together to celebrate art in its many forms. From the vibrant performances to the colorful canvases, face painting and the surrouding nature of Swan Park, there was something for everyone to enjoy.

We were especially proud to involve diverse community groups, including refugees, in every aspect of the event. Inclusivity is at the heart of what we do, and we’re dedicated to making sure everyone feels welcome and valued.

Professional actors and singers will graced our stage, adding a touch of magic to the festivities. Their talent elevated the experience and create lasting memories for all who attended.

Artists and art enthusiasts spent the afternoon painting en plein air with the guidance of renowned artist Paul Kerr and the support of Sinead Walsh and Juile Magee. From seasoned profressionals to childs first canvas painting everyone had a go at making paintings and drawings inspired by the surroundings. 

The cast of “Sunday in the Park with George”

Glenn McGivern – playing the role of George Seurat

Glenn is an actor from Ballymena, he trained at Royal Birmingham Conservatoire and currently works across theatre, film and TV. 

Susie Garvey-Williams playing the role of Dot

Susie trained in Musical Theatre in SLP College in Leeds and has spent much of the last three years touring all over the UK and Ireland with theatrical productions. She is incredibly excited to bring the character of Dot to life in this immersive theatre project in her hometown.

Andrew Tinney playing the role of the Boatman

Andrew is a Donegal actor and playwright whose work has been performed across the island.

The remaining cast members are talented actors and singers living in Inishowen many of whom have performed in productions with Greasepaint Productions, Buncrana Pantomime and Inish Theatre: Sheila Brown, Maria Fitzpatrick, Beth Fitzpatrick, Oliver Doherty, Antonia Trofymets and Yelyzaveta Vynokurova.

Meet the Creative Team behind “Sunday in the Park with George”

Director: Ruth Garvey-Williams

With 30 years experience writing, directing and choreographing multiple community and professional theatre productions, Ruth Garvey-Williams loves to bring history to life, sharing stories through the medium of theatre and film.

Costume Design: Ruth Garvey-Wiliams and Afusat Motunrayo Kilani  

Nigerian fashion designer Motunrayo, has joined Ruth and a whole team of volunteers to recreate the costumes from the George Seurat painting that inspired “Sunday in the Park with George.”

Set Design: Andrew Garvey-Williams

Andrew Garvey-Williams is a community artist whose work enhances many derelict buildings and iconic places in Buncrana. He has often created scenery and props for theatre productions and is delighted to work on the set for “Sunday in the Park with George” along with volunteers from across the community.