Mayo town and its US sister city strengthen their ties through the arts

A brand-new cultural exchange between a north Mayo town and its sister city in the USA is set to bring the two communities even closer - through the power of the arts.

This ambitious initiative between Ballina and Scranton, Pennsylvania marks the first time the two towns, officially twinned in the early 1990s, will collaborate in such a creative and meaningful way, using theatre and music to celebrate their deep-rooted connection.

The historical ties between Ballina and Scranton stretch back long before their official twinning, with many Irish families - particularly from Ballina - settling in Scranton after the Great Famine. Former US President Joe Biden's great-great-great grandfather, Edward Blewitt was one of many people who left Ballina to settle in Scranton in the 19th century.

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Since becoming sister cities, the bond between Ballina and Scranton has remained strong, nourished by regular exchanges, visits, and a shared sense of heritage.

Now, this partnership is taking an exciting leap forward. In October 2025, the Scranton Fringe Festival will bring Ulysses of Scranton to the Ballina Arts Centre - a bold and humorous reimagining of James Joyce’s Ulysses set in modern-day Northeast Pennsylvania. The production will offer a unique cross-cultural experience, blending Irish literary tradition with contemporary American storytelling.

Cllr John O’Hara, Cathaoirleach of Mayo County Council, launched the initiative at the Ballina Arts Centre, saying: “Today marks an important milestone in the friendship between Ballina and Scranton. Through the arts, we are strengthening bonds that have lasted for generations - and celebrating the rich heritage we proudly share.”

This exciting collaboration is just the beginning. In return, a musical group from County Mayo will travel to Scranton in March 2026, bringing the rich musical heritage of the west of Ireland to audiences in Pennsylvania. This exchange will highlight how theatre and music can keep cultural heritage alive while fostering new and dynamic artistic collaborations.

Much of the groundwork for the initiative was led by the Ballina Arts Centre team. Paul Cunningham, Director of Ballina Arts Centre, reflected on the significance of the exchange.

“We are proud to have been at the forefront of organising this initiative. It’s a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the spirit of collaboration between Ballina and Scranton, and to open new doors for future creative exchanges,” he said.

Conor Kelly O’Brien, co-founder and Executive Director of the Scranton Fringe Festival, shared his enthusiasm for the partnership.

“We are thrilled to embark on this international cultural exchange with our friends at the Ballina Arts Centre. The arts continue to be a powerful way to build connections, share stories, and create joy.”

Mairéad Melody Carr, Manager of Mayo North Tourism, highlighted the broader significance of the initiative.

“The cultural ties between Ballina and Scranton are invaluable, and this exchange provides a unique opportunity to not only celebrate our shared heritage but also to attract new visitors, showcasing Ballina’s vibrant arts scene to a global audience.”

Local leaders also expressed their support for the new collaboration. Cllr Michael Loftus and Cllr Annie May Reape, who have long championed the Ballina-Scranton connection, attended the launch and welcomed the initiative. They both highlighted the strength of the long-standing friendship between the two communities.

Minister Dara Calleary, who could not attend the launch, sent his best wishes to all involved and expressed his support for this important cultural initiative.

The organisers hope this project will lay the foundation for even more artistic and cultural exchanges between Ballina and Scranton. As both communities continue to evolve, initiatives like this will ensure their shared heritage remains vibrant, dynamic, and meaningful for generations to come.