Neurodivergent art fest returns to Leeside in April
A festival offering a unique platform to neurodivergent artists in Ireland will return to Cork this month.
Taking place on the UCC campus on 24 and 25 April, Neurofestivity offers a dynamic programme of performances, workshops, panel discussions, and exhibitions.
Now in its second year, accessibility remains as the core principle of the festival, with every event being presented in a relaxed format suitable for all to enjoy.
Speaking recently, festival lead artist Jody O'Neill shared her excitement ahead of this year’s outing. “After our inaugural festival in 2023, we're thrilled to return with an even more ambitious programme,” she said.
“Neurofestivity is about creating space for artists and audiences to share ideas, challenge perspectives, and celebrate the incredible range of creative expression that emerges when neurodivergent artists lead the way,” explained Jody.
A centrepiece of this year's programme is the critically acclaimed play ‘Grace’ by Jody O'Neill, produced by Graffiti Theatre Company and Once Off Productions. Exploring the universal themes of grief and communication, ‘Grace’ invites audiences into a rich, multisensory world shared by Grace and her father — a deeply moving and beautifully crafted production.
Also featured is ‘Unveiled’, a theatre work-in-progress by non-speaking autistic artist Max Whelan who recently appeared in the Virgin Media 1 series 'The Assembly'. Drawing on his own lived experience, Whelan's debut play is searing, political, and full of humour and heart, challenging assumptions about communication and education in ways that are both urgent and unforgettable.
‘It Starts Here’, the festival’s new work showcase, will platform works-in-progress by neurodivergent artists across all art forms, offering audiences a rare window into the creative process and supporting emerging talent at a critical stage of development.
Beyond performance, the festival will engage artists, students, and researchers through a series of workshops, talks, and exhibitions. Highlights include discussions with renowned visual artist Aideen Barry and ornithologist Seán Ronayne; a conversation between Jody O'Neill and writer Fiacre Ryan, author of 'Speechless'; and the Photovoice exhibition, ‘How Music and Arts Support Neurodiversity’, on display in the Cork Opera House foyer throughout the festival weekend.
Funded by Cork City Council, Neurofestivity is produced by Cork Opera House in partnership with UCC and lead artist Jody O'Neill.
Eibhlín Gleeson, CEO and artistic director of Cork Opera House, said: “It is such a privilege to be involved with this festival, which was borne out of a residency Jody O'Neill had with UCC and Cork Opera House in 2022. Cork Opera House is committed to ensuring neurodivergent artists have the platforms, resources, and opportunities to create and share their work at the highest level. Neurofestivity is a vital part of that work.”
Seán Kelly, Arts and Culture Officer, UCC, added: “Making the arts accessible to all and creating space for diverse voices is a core value at UCC and a central pillar of UCC’s Arts and Culture Plan.
“Neurofestivity will platform brilliant art and serve as a meeting point for diverse audiences and creatives.”