ABOUT
The Alternative Kilkenny Arts (AKA) Festival is a volunteer-led, community-driven arts festival expanding access to culture across County Kilkenny. Delivered by a dedicated committee, AKA provides an open and inclusive platform for artists and community groups to share work, connect with audiences and celebrate creativity.
Each August, the festival presents a diverse programme of accessible cultural events across Kilkenny. AKA creates opportunities for participation, visibility and collaboration, strengthening local cultural networks and encouraging year-round engagement with the arts.
OUR MISSION
AKA celebrates and supports creativity across Kilkenny through an open, inclusive, volunteer-led platform. We are committed to making art visible, accessible and valued by providing opportunities for artists to share their work with diverse audiences. Rooted in community and collaboration, the festival connects people through shared cultural experiences and strengthens the creative life of Kilkenny.
OUR VISION
A vibrant, connected Kilkenny where creativity is celebrated in every community and the arts are accessible to all.
OUR VALUES
● Inclusivity and Accessibility: Ensuring everyone can experience and contribute to the arts, regardless of background or ability.
● Creativity and Innovation: Supporting original thinking and cross-disciplinary collaboration that inspires new ideas and perspectives.
● Collaboration and Community: Working in partnership with artists, audiences and organisations to build strong cultural connections.
● Cultural Enrichment and Cohesion : Valuing the arts as a unifying force that enhances Kilkenny’s cultural life and community spirit.
COMMITTEE MEMBERS
Aoife Anderson (Chair)
Liselott Olofsson (Vice Chair)
Kevin Whooley
Thomas Dowling
Asia Mularz
Orla Ryan
Oisín Quigley
Shane Gallagher