An Post Unveils Commemorative Stamps for Druid Theatre’s 50th Anniversary

In a celebration of artistic achievement, An Post unveiled two special stamps to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Druid Theatre Company at the Mick Lally Theatre in Galway this week. These stamps honor one of Ireland’s most iconic theatre companies, showcasing memorable performances from classic Irish plays.

The first stamp, priced at €1.65, represents the national rate and features actors Marty Rea and Aaron Monaghan in a scene from Samuel Beckett’s renowned play, Waiting for Godot (2018). The second stamp, at €2.65 for international mail, depicts actress Marie Mullen in DruidGregory (2020). Mullen, a founding member of Druid, played a vital role alongside co-founder and artistic director Garry Hynes and the late Mick Lally.

A Legacy Recognized

During the unveiling, Garry Hynes expressed gratitude for the recognition, stating, “On behalf of Druid’s co-founder Marie Mullen and the whole Druid team, I wish to express sincere thanks to An Post for this incredible honour.” He added, “When Marie and I co-founded Druid in 1975 with our dear departed friend and colleague, Mick Lally, we could never have imagined that we would be celebrating our 50th anniversary and certainly not with two commemorative stamps from An Post.”

Druid has firmly established itself as a vital part of Ireland’s cultural landscape over the past five decades. Hynes noted that the company has traveled extensively, bringing Irish theatre to audiences worldwide. He hopes the newly released stamps will continue this tradition of outreach.

Artistic Impact and Availability

The stamps, designed by Atelier David Smith and featuring original photography by Matthew Thompson, are available for purchase at main post offices and on An Post’s website, anpost.com/Druid, with free delivery options. The designs incorporate striking black, red, and gold colors, reflecting the vibrancy of Druid’s artistic contributions.

Founded in 1975, Druid is known for producing a wide range of plays, showcasing both established and emerging writers. The company’s productions have reached diverse audiences across Ireland and internationally, including the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and Hong Kong.

Anna McHugh, Head of Communications at An Post, stated, “These special stamps and first day of issue envelope will be appreciated by everyone with an interest in Irish Theatre, and most particularly in the extraordinary people who founded, fuelled and inspired Druid through its first 50 years.”

Patrick O’Donovan TD, Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport, remarked that issuing commemorative stamps represents one of the highest honors the Irish state can bestow upon an individual or group. He highlighted Druid’s significant contributions, noting that the company has showcased Ireland’s talent both domestically and abroad, producing work that challenges, surprises, and entertains.

The release of these commemorative stamps marks not only a milestone for Druid Theatre Company but also serves as a reminder of the enduring impact of Irish theatre on the global stage.