Ardhowen Theatre Celebrates 40 Years of Arts, Music and Community

The Ardhowen Theatre is celebrating 40 years of bringing theatre, music, comedy and community arts to audiences across Fermanagh and beyond.

Set on the banks of Lough Erne, just a bend in the river from the historic island town of Enniskillen, the Ardhowen officially opened its doors on May 16, 1986, with playwright Brian Friel performing at the opening ceremony.

Since then, the theatre has welcomed generations of audiences and performers and remains a much-loved venue and home for professional, amateur and community arts. Its year-round programme includes theatre, music, dance, comedy, workshops, exhibitions and much more.

To mark the occasion, the Ardhowen Theatre will host a special celebration event on Thursday 10 September, bringing together local groups, performers and special guests to reflect on four decades of memories, friendships, talent and community.

The free event will take place from 6pm to 9.30pm, with a limited number of tickets available from Friday 4 September.

The theatre itself has a fascinating history. The Ardhowen began life as an Edwardian villa, built for local draper Charles McDonagh. Following his death in 1958, Ardhowen House was purchased by the local Council and converted into offices.

In the 1980s, Enniskillen-born architect Tom Mullarkey designed a major extension incorporating the theatre auditorium and associated facilities, creating the venue we know today.

The building has since been recognised for its architectural and historic importance and is Grade B listed.

Over four decades, the Ardhowen stage has welcomed major names including Paul Heaton, The Nolans, Westlife and Patrick Kielty, alongside countless other performers. Yet, its greatest legacy is perhaps the opportunity it has provided to local people.

Generations of performers have taken their first steps on the Ardhowen stage, with local groups including Enniskillen Light Operatic, Fermanagh Musical Theatre, Brightstarz and Lakeland Players, among many others, making the theatre their home.

The Enniskillen Drama Festival, which began in 1980, also played an important role in building demand for a dedicated theatre in the town.

Speaking on the anniversary, Chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, Councillor Debbie Coyle, said: “Performances at the Ardhowen stage have delighted audiences across the district and beyond for four decades, and I am delighted that this landmark venue is now reaching this milestone anniversary.

“The theatre has a rich history, both as an architectural landmark and as a cultural centre. Famous acts, including Westlife, have performed on the stage, which is testament to the Ardhowen’s reputation as a leading arts venue. It has also played a major role in fostering local dramatic talent and promoting Enniskillen’s thriving drama scene.

“The 40th anniversary provides a wonderful opportunity to look back and celebrate the many performances, achievements, friendships and memories created at the Ardhowen. As we look ahead to the next 40 years, I am confident that the theatre will continue to be at the heart of cultural life here in Fermanagh and beyond, inspiring and bringing people together for generations to come.”

The 40th anniversary celebration evening will take place on Thursday 10 September 2026, from 6pm to 9.30pm. Admission is free, but tickets must be obtained in advance from the Ardhowen Theatre Box Office by calling 028 6632 5440, or online at www.ardhowen.com.

Booking for tickets will open at 10am on Friday 4 September. Tickets are limited and will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.