Traditions Theatre Curtains partially raised

Welcome to the UCC Players


The first ever drama group for staff, retired staff and alumni.


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Not enough drama in your life?

Then why not join the UCC Players, we are very active group and welcome new members, not only actors but also back-stage people who can sew, paint, or are handy with a hammer. If you have an interest in acting/directing/producing or just a passion for theatre and drama, come along to one of our weekly meetings.

News and Events

01 Nov 2023

The Wisdom of Eve

“Fasten your seatbelts, it's going to be a bumpy night”  After their hugely successful show “Let’s Go To The Movies” in the Aula Maxima in April, The UCC Players are delighted to be back on stage at the Cork Arts Theatre with their new production of “The Wisdom of Eve” by Mary Orr. Shy, sincere and conscientious, Eve Harrington’s dream is realised when she is taken on as a personal secretary by her actress idol, Margo Crane. However, Eve's seemingly innocent and devoted demeanour masks her true intentions– to usurp Margo's position in the theatre world and become the new reigning star. The story unfolds through a series of betrayals, deceptions, and manipulations highlighting the cutthroat nature of the entertainment industry and the complexities of human relationships. Adapted from the short story by the author, the story provided the basis for the Academy Award winning classic film “All About Eve” (starring Bette Davis and Anne Baxter) and the hit musical “Applause”. The perfect way to extend your jazz weekend, this stage version is an engrossing and revealing inside story of life in the world of 1950’s New York theatre, featuring an array of unforgettable characters, razor sharp dialogue and an incredible jazz soundtrack.
Read on youtube.com
11 Apr 2023

Let’s Go to the Movies

It’s Oscar season! And for three nights in April, the Aula Maxima got a Hollywood makeover for an evening of glamour and music from The UCC Players. Taking inspiration from the Golden Era of Hollywood Cinema, this production is a tribute to the great musicals and movies that brought us some of the most enduring songs and scenes in cinematic memory – a perfect excuse to come together for some feel-good entertainment in one of Cork’s most beautiful settings.  
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Dr Jim O'Mahony as Frank and Dr Karen Ray as Rita
15 May 2022

Educating Rita

The UCC Players brought their latest masterpiece ‘Educating Rita’ to centre stage at the Aula Maxima, UCC from 15th – 19th May 2022.  The heart-warming comedy, written by one of Britain’s greatest playwrights, Willy Russell, starred Jim O’Mahony as Frank, and Karen Ray as Rita, both shaping and adapting the fictional characters into captivating performances.  Directed and produced by multi-skilled Brenda Lynch, all creative aspects of the production were so carefully considered – even down to the sweet treats! Many thanks to everyone who so warmly supported this poignant and cherished story.  A resounding success and we could not be prouder of this trio!
Read on ucc.ie
Cast and crew of Drumbeat would like to thank everyone for their support, over the four night run in the CAT Club
17 Nov 2021

Drumbeat

'Drumbeat' is a story of love and devotion, of commitment, frailty and awakening. But the stakes have never been higher, as ruthless ambition and lust stoke a murderous desire for vengeance that threatens to subjugate the very essence of the human spirit. Drumbeat' is directed by John McCaffrey. John is both an actor and director and has worked with playwright Derry Cotter on previous theatrical projects including 'The Inheritance' . John shared some of thoughts on the his directing process.'I like to create the rehearsal space as it would be on stage early on. This ensures that the cast quickly become accustomed to the set and to their places on stage.  Visualization and imagination are both key to the directing process. I like to start working on the script straight away. I think it's important to work collaboratively with the actors and listen to their suggestions.' 'Drumbeat' will be staged at Cork Arts Theatre from November 17th to 20th. Written by Derry Cotter and directed by John McCaffrey, both of whom have a long association with UCC Players, the cast features Denise Goggin, Mike O'Keeffe, Peter Dineen and Anne Marie McMahon.   
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