Two new cool CATs for Cork

As theatre emerges from repeated lockdowns, Cork Arts Theatre (CAT) has announced two new appointments to strengthen its team and spearhead new developments in 2022.

The new arrivals are Fin Flynn who has been appointed Manager, a new role at the venue, and Geoff Gould who steps into the role of Chair of the Board.

Both bring extensive experience of working in theatre. Fin spent 17 years as manager of Corcadorca and has since worked with Once Off Productions, a national platform for supporting independent artists. She also worked as a freelance producer, most recently for ‘Philadelphia Here I Come’ at Cork Opera House for Patrick Talbot Productions.

Newly appointed Chair Geoff Gould has an extensive, and impressive theatre CV. Founder and Artistic Director of Blood in the Alley Theatre Company, he is a former artistic director of the Everyman, as well as the founder and person behind the West Cork and Black Water Fit Up Festivals.

The duo point to a sense of renewed energy and optimism in the world of theatre, post-Covid restrictions.

The appointment of Fin as Manager facilitates a new strategic partnership between CAT and Once Off Productions, which aims to collaboratively promote, and support, emerging artists.

Fin said: “I am delighted to be joining the team at CAT and excited by the potential of the role. Cork Arts Theatre is such a fabulous venue and is fortunate to have a dedicated board and loyal audience. I am looking forward to working with Artistic Director Dolores Mannion and Technical Manager Jamie Feehily as well as Geoff. CAT has always aimed to support emerging professional artists and we are keen to explore how this can be further developed over the next few years, particularly through partnership.”

She continued: “It has undoubtedly been a tough few years for theatre but there is great work being produced by local and Irish artists and we look forward to presenting it at Cork Arts Theatre.”

On his appointment as Chair, Geoff says: “The Cork Arts Theatre has made a hugely important contribution to Cork theatre since its inception. Many writers, actors, designers, and technicians have honed their skills there. Great credit is due to the board, and Dolores and her team, for navigating the numerous obstacles in keeping a theatre going. I'm delighted to be involved.”