Hosted by Flux Learning, a digital education company based in West Cork, Ireland, this podcast showcases the exceptional, innovative and imaginative work of those working in enterprise and the creative arts. Subscribe to the podcast. Join the community on Twitter and Instagram Visit https://www.corkcreative.ie for more information.
Episode 82 Ciarán MacArtain, Artistic Director of Strive Theatre
On this episode of the Cork Creative podcast, host Geraldine Hennessy is joined by Ciarán MacArtain, the artistic director and co-founder of Strive Theatre. Ciarán discusses his route into the arts, from his early inspirations and youth theatre roots to studying Drama and Theatre Studies at UCC.
He shares the story behind co-founding Strive Theatre, a company built on the ethos of staging new, site-specific work rooted in Cork City whilst making theatre accessible to non-traditional audiences through affordable ticket prices. Listeners will get an inside look at Strive’s structured Play Development Scheme, the delicate balance between creative ambitions and the realities of administration and funding, and the importance of building collaborative teams that prioritise the project over individual egos.
Ciarán also talks about his company's evolution towards devised and documentary forms, culminating in their latest project, Goll - an experimental folk opera retelling the mythic character Fintan, developed over three years in collaboration with the Cork band MacBóchra.
Tune in for a fascinating glimpse into Cork's vibrant cultural landscape and the dedication required to sustain an independent theatre company.
11 Sept 2026
Episode 81 Danny Manning, Retired FDNY Firefighter
In this deeply moving episode of Cork Creative, Patrick sits down with retired FDNY firefighter Danny Manning to discuss his 23-year career, his deep-rooted family ties to Cork, and the unbreakable brotherhood of the firehouse.
Danny shares a gripping firsthand account of 11 September 2001 before the conversation moves across the Atlantic to the Ringfinnan Garden of Remembrance near Kinsale. Danny beautifully articulates why this living memorial - founded by Cork nurse Kathleen Murphy and dedicated to the 343 firefighters who lost their lives - is so deeply special to the FDNY community. He shares his hopes for its long-term preservation and expresses profound gratitude to the people of Ireland for their ongoing support and remembrance.
28 Aug 2026
Episode 80 Carina McNally, Writer
Writer and historian Carina McNally joins the Cork Creative Podcast to explore how West Cork’s stunning landscape, rich folklore, and deep-rooted histories shape her storytelling. From her debut novel Mithim set in Cromwellian Ireland to staging her play The Crow’s Old Gold, Carina shares insights into historical trauma, ancient goddesses, and navigating the publishing world. Join us for an inspiring conversation on creative confidence and bringing Ireland's forgotten voices back to life.
Who has been a guest on Cork Creative
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Wan Aznainizam Yusri Wan Abdul Rashid
Emma Jacobs
Leika Hartjes
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4 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 43 / 100
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Engagement
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