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 in Leitrim.
A DAY WITH BRUISER — The Playhouse, Derry
Friday 22 May | 10am–3pm | Ages 16+ | Limited spaces
Join Bruiser Theatre Company for an energetic, hands-on theatre experience where you’ll move, create, collaborate, and perform — all in one day.
What to expect:
- Learn bold physical theatre choreography
- Explore improvisation & devising
- Dive into script and storytelling
- Finish the day with a live Bruiser performance and creative reflection
This day is all about connection — connecting with new people, new ideas, and new ways of making theatre.
Lunch break included. No experience needed — just curiosity, and comfy clothes!
A DAY WITH BRUISER — The Dock, Leitrim
Saturday 6 June | 10am–3pm | Ages 16+ | Limited spaces
Spend a full day at The Dock with Bruiser Theatre Company, exploring how ideas turn into performance through script, character, movement, and devising.
What to expect:
- Build characters and scenes
- Mix script, choreography & physical theatre
- Devise work as a group
The theme of the day is connection — how we work together, listen, respond, and create as an ensemble. Perfect if you’re curious about theatre, performance, or just want to try something new and meet like-minded people.
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. The group 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.