On Disability Matters, John Comiskey speaks with Roisin Lonergan, Artistic Director and founder of the Five Lamps Festival—one of Dublin’s most vibrant and community-driven arts festivals.
Founded in 2007, the festival was born from a simple but powerful idea: to make the arts accessible to everyone.
“I realised that many people in the area weren’t engaging with the arts,” Roisin explains. “Whether due to social circumstances, disability, or simply not feeling that those spaces were for them.”
Working at the time as a teacher in Dublin’s North Strand, Roisin saw first-hand how people living just steps away from major cultural institutions—like the Abbey Theatre—felt disconnected from them. The Five Lamps Festival was her response: an invitation to reclaim the arts as something for the whole community.
A Festival Rooted in Community
Based in Dublin’s North East Inner City, the festival has grown from a modest programme of walking tours and small events into a multi-disciplinary celebration of theatre, music, dance, film, and visual arts.
Despite its growth, its core mission remains unchanged.
“It’s about opening up the arts,” Roisin says. “Not just bringing people in—but also showcasing the richness of the community itself.”
The area has long been home to some of Ireland’s most celebrated writers, including Brendan Behan and James Joyce. Through storytelling, performances, and exhibitions, the festival shines a light on this cultural heritage while creating new opportunities for artists and audiences alike.
Accessibility and Inclusion at Its Core
Accessibility is central to the festival’s ethos—not just physically, but socially and culturally.
Events take place in a wide range of venues, from theatres and galleries to libraries, community spaces, and even shopping centres. Many activities are free or low-cost, and the programme includes events in schools, workplaces, and day centres throughout the year.
“We want people to feel welcome,” Roisin says. “To feel that this is for them.”
Among this year’s highlights is Full Circle, a powerful play telling the life story of James Rickard, a man living with cerebral palsy who has travelled the world and embraced life on his own terms.
“It’s about showing what’s possible,” Roisin notes. “James never let disability define him.”
A City Alive with Creativity
The festival programme is as diverse as the community it serves.
From high-energy theatre performances and comedy showcases to jazz concerts, dance battles, and interactive workshops, there is something for everyone. Public spaces come alive with street performances, while family-friendly events invite people of all ages to participate.
“We want to animate the area,” Roisin explains. “To make it vibrant, to bring people together, and to change perceptions.”
This includes transforming unexpected spaces into creative hubs—like exhibitions in shopping centres or performances in community gardens—making art visible and accessible in everyday life.
Powered by People
Behind the scenes, the festival is driven by a small dedicated team and a large network of volunteers.
“We have around 80 volunteers this year,” Roisin says. “They are absolutely essential.”
Their contribution reflects the strong sense of ownership and pride within the community—something Roisin believes is key to the festival’s success.
“It’s not just an arts festival,” she adds. “It’s a community effort.”
Looking Ahead
Running annually in April, the Five Lamps Festival continues to grow while staying true to its roots—celebrating creativity, inclusion, and community spirit.
For Roisin, the goal is simple but powerful:
“To make the area come alive—and to make sure everyone feels part of it.”
🎭 A Festival Made By the Community For the Community 11th to 19th April.
For information, support, and upcoming events, visit:
🌐fivelampsarts.ie
This interview aired on Disability Matters on 92.5 Phoenix FM, a programme produced by Blanchardstown Centre for Independent Living (BCIL).
Tune in to Disability Matters Thursdays at 4PM | Repeats: Mon 3AM, Tue 3AM & 7AM | Also available on Mixcloud and on bcil.ie/radio.
Compiled by Valentyna Hordiichuk