'You can only take a few financial risks': Getting the balance right at Cork Arts Theatre

As Cork Arts Theatre marks 50 years, its CEO welcomes the funding that's paid for an ambitious anniversary programme, and one of the directors gives the lowdown on an Irish premiere at the venue 

Fin Flynn of Cork Arts Theatre, and 'Infinity' director Julie Kelleher at the Carrolls Quay venue. Picture: Chani Anderson

Now in her roles as director and CEO of the Cork Arts Theatre for nearly four years, Fin Flynn says the main challenge is to ensure that the venue is economically viable. This year, the 100-seater venue formerly known as the CAT Club is celebrating 50 years with an ambitious programme. Under the banner Re: Directing, the theatre is producing three contemporary plays with the first one, Infinity, directed by Julie Kelleher.

Thanks to Arts Council funding of €129,000 to produce the three plays, Flynn says this is the first time the theatre on Carrolls Quay  has received “significant funding” from the organisation. The grant is specifically for the three shows.