Artist Support - Grey Matter Tour 2023

Draíocht has supported Paul Curley and Ger Clancy in the creation, development and presentation of GREY MATTER since first commissioning the work in 2021 along with the support of The Arts Council. This support has run right through the life of the work allowing us to develop the script and the puppet in consultation with a number of schools in Dublin 15. These same schools came to see the premiere of the work in the Studio in Draíocht in September 2023. From the earliest stages of this new piece for young audiences, Draíocht has given space to develop and rehearse, facilitated access to schools and classes in Dublin 15, provided producing and marketing support, technical assistance and access for audiences to see the final presentation of the work in the Studio in Draíocht.

Grey Matter is a new play for young audiences by Paul Curley and Ger Clancy, Presented by Paul Curley and Draíocht

A scientist. A parrot. A lifelong friendship. Grey Matter explores the joyful relationship between a boy and his pet (African Grey) parrot as they journey through life together, experiencing the highs, the lows, and everything in between. Performer and writer Paul Curley in collaboration with designer and puppet-maker Ger Clancy bring this captivating new play for young audiences to life, asking us to consider who we are, and how we get to know ourselves. Directed by Bjarne Sandborg of Teater Refleksion (Denmark) and Ian Cameron (Scotland) along with designers Sarah Jane Shiels, Ciara Fleming and composer Denis Clohessy, Grey Matter promises to be a treat for audiences young and old.

School Shows: Fri 15 Sep 2023 / 10.15am & 12.15pm
Family Shows: Sat 16 Sep 2023 / 12 noon & 2pm
Suitable for ages 8yrs +
Running time 45 mins.

Grey Matter was originally commissioned by Draíocht and is presented with the support of The Arts Council YPCE Project Award, Riverbank Arts Centre, Creative Hubs - Dublin City Council Arts Office and Meitheal CPS – A Branar Initiative.


Production Image: Ste Murray

Draíocht is recognised as a creative hub and laboratory space and invests significantly in the development of artist's practice by the provision of benefit in kind support such as space, technical support, admin/marketing support and specialist expertise. We offer a wide range of opportunities to artists i.e. commissions, residencies, artist studios/rehearsal space, co-productions, co-commissions, seed funding, mentoring.

Our Artist Support Series, launched during Covid-19, has helped 79 artists in 2020, 50 artists in 2021 and 74 artists in 2022, with the provision of free rehearsal and creative space. Space to rehearse, write, create, film, dance, think & plan ... whatever is needed!

With thanks to our funders Fingal County Council & The Arts Council.

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