Mermaid County Wicklow Arts Centre, a cornerstone of Bray’s cultural life since 2002, has launched an initiative to ensure its long-term sustainability. The “Sponsor A Seat” campaign, alongside a relaunch of the Friends scheme, arrives at a time when the centre is managing record attendance but facing significant increases in operational costs.
While Mermaid is a central part of the Wicklow community, it operates as a charity rather than a commercial enterprise. CEO and Artistic Director Aoife Demel highlighted the reality of their funding model: “There is a popular misconception that Mermaid is a commercial venue. We are, in fact, a charity that exists to bring artistic experiences to the people of County Wicklow and to support artists in the creation of work. We receive 21% of our costs from Wicklow County Council, 19% from the Arts Council, and the remaining 60% needs to be generated from ticket sales and donations.”
Despite 2025 being the busiest year on record—with over 400 events—static funding levels and rising overheads mean the centre is calling on local residents and businesses to help bridge the gap.
How You Can Support
- Sponsor A Seat: Individuals or businesses can have their support acknowledged on a dedicated plaque on a seat in the auditorium.
- Become a Friend: Join the new membership scheme with tiers inspired by artist Colm Keegan’s spoken word piece: Lantern, Beacon, or Sirius.
By participating, you directly support the financial viability of the venue, ensuring it remains a space for local performers and world-class arts for years to come.
For full details on how to get involved, visit mermaidartscentre.ie/about/support-us.
The main photo features Mermaid Artistic Director Aoife Demel (center), along with Bray MD Cathaoirleach Erika Doyle and Wicklow County Council Cathaoirleach Melanie Corrigan, as well as Jackie Carroll and Brian Wildes from Wicklow County Council, and councillors Ned Whelan and Caroline Winstanley.