Arthur Lappin, producer of such films as In America and Some Mother's Son, and the co-producer of In The Name Of The Father, has been appointed as chair of the board of Galway 2020, "with immediate effect".
Mr Lappin was announced as board chair of Galway2020 on Wednesday. He has pervious experience with the organisation, having played a key role in producing the bid book during the bid phase for the title of European Capital of Culture.
He has served on the board of more than 30 cultural organisations in film, theatre, dance, opera, education, and multi-disciplinary arts centres. He has produced more than 20 stage productions in all major Dublin theatres, as well as across Ireland, Britain, and Australia. He was also the line producer on My Left Foot and The Field, and executive producer of Bloody Sunday, starring Jimmy Nesbitt.
"It is an honour for me to have been invited to chair the board of Galway 2020," said Mr Lappin. "My work during the bid process showed me how transformative this could be for Galway - not just for the work that will be presented during 2020, but for the legacy which it will sow for the future. Now is the time to stoke the flames of public enthusiasm for, and business engagement with, Galway 2020. Together, we will generate waves of excitement and brilliance to demonstrate that Galway is indeed the capital of culture."
Patricia Philbin, CEO Galway 2020 welcomed the appointment, saying Mr Lappin is "renowned in the industry" and that he will "play a significant part in the delivery of Galway 2020. With his unrivalled knowledge and experience, we believe he is a superb addition”.
