Closing of Reconnecting Through Culture project celebrated at Strabane Library
30 September 2026
Strabane Library Civic Room has hosted a special celebration event to mark the completion of Reconnecting Through Culture: A Cross-Border Exploration of Art and Transport Infrastructure.
The initiative, a joint venture between Donegal Railway Heritage Museum and the Alley Theatre in Strabane, was made possible through funding from the Shared Island Civic Society Fund.
The afternoon event brought together people from across the North West to explore the links between culture, heritage and regional transport infrastructure.
Attendees viewed artwork displays, historical artefact exhibits, live acoustic music and a panel discussion.
A highlight of the event was the presentation of awards for the cross-border Schools Art Competition where students from across the region were recognised for their imaginative artwork and accompanying written pieces that reflected how transport connects everyday lives across the North West.
The day also featured the official launch of the Rhythm of the Rails virtual exhibition that incorporated performance videos recorded inside the historic Donegal Railway passenger saloon and featured local artists Muireann Bradley, John Nelson, Charlie McGettigan and Without Willow.
The digital display traced the evolution of train-themed music from the 19th century to the modern era.
To mark the launch John Nelson and Letterkenny’s Without Willow delivered a joint lunchtime performance, showcasing cross-border musical collaboration.
The event concluded with a panel discussion on Culture, Infrastructure, and the Future of the North-West featuring civil rights activist and Into the West Rail Campaign founding member Eamonn McCann, alongside author Garbhán Downey.
The panel addressed critical regional issues, examining how transport links, educational expansion and cultural heritage are vital to the future socio-economic growth of the North-West.
Marty Gilroy, Manager of Donegal Railway Heritage Museum, said:
“We were delighted to celebrate the culmination of this project.
“Working with communities on both sides of the border has shown how deeply transport and culture resonate across the region.
“We extend our sincere thanks to the Shared Island Civic Society Fund, the Alley Theatre and everyone who participated.”
Emma Devine of the Alley Theatre added:
“This collaboration highlighted the shared connections across our community and we are grateful to the Shared Island Civic Society Fund for enabling us to deliver such an impactful programme.
“The whole project was also a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the rich culture and history of Strabane as we continue our campaign to be named the UK’s first ever Town of Culture in 2028.”
Although the live event series has concluded, the Railways in Music virtual exhibition and selected competition entries remain accessible online.
For further information on events and opening hours of the Strabane Library visit www.librariesni.org.uk/