In the arts and cultural life it is generally difficult to distinguish
between native and imported. Few traces remain of any culture predating the
Tudor invasions of the 16th century and the forced settlements of Scots early
in the following century. Folk participation and recreation are periodically
focused on colourful and noisy religious ceremonies and processions. In other
respects, the cultural milieu of Northern Ireland is one shared with the
remainder of the British Isles. The accents given to the English language
represent the most obvious of the few truly distinctive regional
characteristics.
Northern Ireland has an Arts Council, which encourages all aspects of the
arts. Its activities tend to be concentrated in Belfast because this city alone
can support ballet and opera companies. Belfast has theatres, a touring company
based on the University of Ulster, a symphony orchestra, and a youth orchestra.
In addition, it possesses a permanent art gallery, as does Londonderry. Ulster
Television, Ltd., provides local programming in competition with the British
Broadcasting Corporation. The Ulster Museum is the national museum, while the
Ulster Folk and Transport Museum provides an interesting link with peasant
origins in Northern Ireland.