Macnas

Macnas, based at the black box theatre in Galway, is Ireland's leading performance company. Its public performances are noted for exuberance, colour and spectacle. The company has singlehandedly changed the nature of public entertainment in Ireland and has spawned many imitators. Founded in 1986 the company has performed in over 20 countries across the globe. Macnas toured alongside U2 as part of the Zooropa tour in 1993. In an incredible display of organisation Macnas and sister company Macteo simultaneously rang in the new millennium in three different cities; Galway (Eyre Square), Dublin (Merrion Square) and New York (Times Square). Macnas 'control' is spread across three different locations in Galway city. Administration mainly takes place in The 'Black Box', construction at two workshops near NUIG and finally a warehouse in Ballybane (the largest space where large-scale construction takes place). Macnas parades form the centre-point of Halloween, St Patrick's Day and Art Festival festivities in Galway city. Massive crowds gather to witness the events, often resulting in overcrowding of the main city street. Macnas' sister company, Macteo has changed ownership and is now known as 'Arcana'.

The Liffey Press and Macnas have published "Macnas: joyful abandonment" a lavish 250 page full colour history of this remarksble company.

* "Macnas" from the Gaelic (Irish) "joyful abandonment".

External links

* [http://www.macnas.com Macnas website]