Working It!

Spotlight on Creative Work Experience

Blue Teapot’s WorkAbility: Inclusive Pathways to Employment programme is all about helping our team of ensemble actors and Performing Arts School students develop practical skills, build confidence in the workplace and learn more about the many different roles available within the arts sector.

None of this would be possible without the support of the partner organisations who welcome our students into real working environments and give them the chance to put their skills into practice. Here are some of the brilliant experiences they have taken part in this year to date.

Galway Uke Fest

Galway Uke Fest is a celebration of all things ukulele in the heart of Galway. Over four days in June, the city comes alive with music, workshops and good vibes. This year, our students gained valuable hands-on work experience at the festival, working on ticket sales, cash and card payments, front of house duties – ticket scanning, merchandise selling, and all-round terrific customer service.

The Mick Lally Theatre

2026 marks the second year of our deeply rewarding partnership with Druid Theatre Company and The Mick Lally Theatre, and we couldn’t be happier with the results. Throughout the year, third year students have supported the front of house team at several performances, welcomed audiences, scanned tickets, distributed programmes, ushered people to their seats and worked in the bar. Working at The Mick Lally Theatre has become a much-anticipated part of Performing Arts School calendar and we hope to see our students back in Druid Lane again soon.

Galway International Arts Festival

We began a new and exciting  partnership with the Galway international Arts Festival (GIAF). GIAF is a major cultural organisation that hosts one of Europe’s leading international arts celebrations every July with our graduating third-year students had the opportunity to volunteer and gain valuable work experience.

Over the two weeks of the Festival, Jess, Sinead, Niamh and Aoibhín invigilated galleries, acted as stewards (and occasionally participants) in the Silent Disco, worked in the box office, and dealt directly with the public. We are incredibly proud of the professionalism, confidence and enthusiasm they brought to every role.

Theatre Company 

This autumn, some of the ensemble will resume rehearsals in preparation of a forthcoming winter tour of Fairy Tree which provides paid work for the cast. More News to follow.

This project is co-funded by the Government of Ireland, through the Department of Social Protection, and the European Union.

EU Funds – European Structural and Investment Funds in Ireland