Performance

Explore Branar, a Galway theatre company dedicated to creating artistic engagements and experiences for children, from local DEIS schools to the Sydney Opera House. We were delighted to connect with University of Galway alumnus Marc Mac Lochlainn, Founding Artistic Director, and the wider team.     

Cois Coiribe was honoured to reconnect with alumna Maureen Kennelly, CEO of Druid. In this article, we explore the enduring relationship between Druid and University of Galway. From knowledge exchange to the impact of the Druid Academy in nurturing the next generation of creative talent, Maureen delves into her experience as a student of the arts at the University, and how it helped shaped her journey in the world of theatre and the arts.    

Bríd Seoige sits down with John Crumlish, CEO of the Galway International Arts Festival (GIAF), to explore the journey that took him from student life in Galway to leading one of Ireland’s flagship cultural events. Reflecting on his early days at UCG (now University of Galway), his introduction to Macnas and the Festival, and the creative energy of Galway in the late ’80s, he traces the key moments that shaped his path.  John shares insights into the Festival’s role in Galway’s growth as a cultural capital, its partnership with University of Galway, and the challenges of funding and infrastructure. At the heart of it all is a clear belief: creative industries enrich society, and the University is a development agency, helping to anchor a west coast ecosystem where talent can study, create, and build careers locally.