As part of Cruinniú na nÓg 2026, The Dock is delighted to collaborate with Leitrim County Council, The Playhouse (Derry) and Bruiser Theatre Company (Belfast) to deliver a two‑day cross‑border theatre project for young people. Supported through the Shared Island Initiative, the project brings groups from both Northern Ireland and The Republic of Ireland together for theatre workshops.
Young people will work with Bruiser Theatre Company, whose practice is rooted in physical, ensemble‑based performance and long‑standing youth training. The project will take place across two venues — Day 1 at The Playhouse in Derry, and Day 2 at The Dock Arts Centre in Leitrim.
Workshops
Day 1: Friday 22 May 2026 — The Playhouse, Derry
10am–3pm
A full “A Day With Bruiser” experience across three workshop spaces, including:
● Three theatre workshops led by Bruiser facilitators
● A performance by Bruiser’s interns
● A Q&A session
● Participants include Leaving Cert Drama students, youth theatre groups from ROI, theatre groups from The Playhouse, and additional NI schools.
Day 2: 6 June 2026 — The Dock, Leitrim
10am–3pm
A collaborative devising day where young people from both sides of the border work together to create short pieces. The focus is on creativity, connection, and making friends through theatre. There is no public audience — the groups simply share their work with each other.
A detailed schedule will be confirmed closer to the date.
For further information, contact Events Manager Jane Carmody at jane.carmody@leitrimcoco.ie.
Bruiser Theatre Company
Bruiser Theatre Company was founded in 1997 and is based in Belfast. It is known for its physical, actor‑centred approach to theatre. The company focuses on minimal set and ensemble performance, placing the actor at the centre of the work. Alongside its productions, Bruiser provides training and development opportunities for young people through its education and engagement programmes.
The Playhouse
The Playhouse in Derry is a long‑established theatre and arts organisation with a strong focus on community, learning and socially engaged arts practice. Its work includes producing theatre and film, co‑designing performing arts programmes with diverse groups, and using the arts to support understanding and connection between communities. The Playhouse is funded by the Arts Council of Northern Ireland, Derry City and Strabane District Council, and the Community Relations Council.