International Volunteer Year (IVY) 2026 Volunteer Spotlight - An Táin Arts Centre

Where Arts and Community Meet

 

The doors open, the lights dim, and the energy of anticipation fills the room. At An Táin Arts Centre, it’s not just the performers who make the night come alive - it’s the people welcoming you in.

Among them is Nataliia, a volunteer who found her way to An Táin through Louth Volunteer Centre. A lover of art, she has a deep connection to the centre’s mission. After her regular workday, she enjoys dedicating her time to volunteering, feeling it’s a privilege to be part of something so special.

“It’s an honor for me to be here, to help out and be part of the An Táin team. Art has always been my passion, and being able to support the arts in this community means a lot to me.”

it’s these moments that remind her why she loves volunteering. -

“I’m proud to be involved. If you’re thinking about volunteering, just do it - it’s a chance to connect with people and be part of something bigger than yourself.”

About the Organisation

An Táin Arts Centre is a cornerstone of Dundalk’s cultural life, offering a diverse programme of theatre, music, and visual arts. But it’s not just about the art - it’s about bringing people together to experience and support creativity.

The centre’s long-standing partnership with Louth Volunteer Centre has played a key role in building a strong network of volunteers, making each event and exhibition possible.

As CEO Paul Hayes says:

“We’ve been availing of the services of Louth Volunteer Centre for a very long time and… we currently have on our books over 80 volunteers, most of which came through Louth Volunteer Centre.”

The Role of Volunteers

Volunteers like Nataliia are essential to the smooth running of An Táin Arts Centre. They assist in many areas, particularly during events.

“They volunteer to be what we call front of house assistance… on a night like tonight where there's a show, some of the volunteers will come in and they'll help us get the audience from the door, check their tickets into the correct seat in a nice polite manner.”

Volunteers also support the gallery space:

“Gallery invigilation… to sit in the space and when people come down… to welcome them… give them any answers that they might need… but they’re also there from a security point of view.”

These roles help create a welcoming atmosphere and ensure that every visitor enjoys their experience.

 

How to Get Involved

Volunteering at An Táin Arts Centre is a fantastic way to get involved with the arts and connect with the local community. Through Louth Volunteer Centre, individuals can easily find roles that match their skills and interests.

You can also reach out to the CEO, Paul Hayes, at paul@antain.ie. Whether you have a background in the arts or simply want to contribute to something meaningful, volunteering is a chance to gain new experiences, meet people, and make a difference in Dundalk’s vibrant cultural scene.