ARTS AND CULTURE

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.