Clare Kilgallon RBV reappointed to the board of Culture Vannin

Clare Kilgallon RBV reappointed to the board of Culture Vannin

Fri, 22 May 2020

Clare receiving the RBV in 2014

Clare Kilgallon has been reappointed to the board of Culture Vannin.

Someone immersed in Manx culture since she was very young, Clare is a talented and inspirational force in Manx cultural circles. She was introduced to Manx culture when she joined Aeglagh Vannin (Youth of Mann), learning songs, dances and stories from the youth movement’s leader, Mona Douglas. In many ways, Clare has followed in the footsteps of her mentor, bringing up her own children and grandchildren with a rich understanding and appreciation of our culture, and passing on that same enthusiasm to everyone she meets, especially young Bree students.

Clare has featured at Manx cultural events and on various recordings and has represented the Isle of Man internationally. She leads the Manx Gaelic unaccompanied choir Cliogaree Twoaie, with whom she has made two CDs. Clare is also a long-term member of Manx dance groups Bock Yuan Fannee and the Manx Folk Dance Society, and sings with Caarjyn Cooidjagh.

Clare’s expertise and lifelong commitment to Manx culture was recognised in 2014 with the award of the Reih Bleeaney Vanannan, the Isle of Man’s highest cultural honour. Nominations are made by the general public, and, as such, the award confirms her ongoing contribution to Manx culture which is always marked by her generosity and welcoming nature.

This will be Clare’s second and final term as a government appointed member. Caairliagh of Culture Vannin, Hon Chris Thomas MHK, thanked Clare for her commitment and contribution, noting that her first term had been marked by both tremendous enthusiasm and quiet dedication, giving freely of her time and working with other board members and officers to take Manx culture forward.

Clare commented: “I’m absolutely delighted to be chosen for a second term. I thoroughly enjoyed the last five years and think Culture Vannin is a wonderful organisation which promotes and supports – in so many ways – so many different aspects of our Island’s culture and cultural heritage and to be part of that is a great honour indeed!!