Report by Brad Balfour
On Monday, May 20th, The Irish Repertory Theatre held its GreenSeats Spring Social, an event organized to reach out to younger fans of the Irish dramatic arts. Starting at 6pm, the crowd gathered on the second floor of 132 West 22nd Street. After a packed reception with light snacks and drinks, a panel discussion kicked off at 6:45pm on the Francis J. Greenburger Mainstage.
It’s offered to be a great chance for attendees to mingle with Irish Rep staff, connect with the panelists, meet like-minded folks, and hear all about what’s coming up in this program. Hosted by Director of Audience and Play Development Nicola Murphy Dubey, the panel discussion featured Niall Boyle (Founder/CEO of Irish Breakfast Box), Amy Brett and Shelly Hackett (Founders of Sláinte Retreats), Sarah Moran (Writer & Researcher) and Clare O’Malley (Actress & Singer/Songwriter).
CEO & Founder of Irish Breakfast Box, Niall Boyle was born and raised in Co. Tyrone, This dynamic entrepreneur with a passion for celebrating Irish culture and cuisine. Irish Breakfast Box is a venture dedicated to sharing the rich flavors of Ireland with enthusiasts around the country. In addition to his role at Irish Breakfast Box, Niall is founding partner of The Blasket Pub, playing a pivotal role in creating a welcoming hub for locals and visitors alike.
Shelly Hackett and Amy Brett are co- founders of Sláinte Retreats. Hackett comes from Tyrone, where her background is in Orthopedic and Neurosurgery nursing, Personal Training and Pilates. After immigrating to NY, she became the Operations Manager of a successful Physical Therapy & Wellness Clinic in the heart of Manhattan. Brett hails from Mayo. Following a Business and Law degree from UCD, she moved to NY nine years ago, where she developed a deep love for working with people and organizing events. She brings the community together through Slainte’s Run Group and ODR Ladies and is the driving force behind many charitable fundraisers.
Sarah Moran is a writer and researcher with a background in theater. She graduated from Trinity College in 2022 with a degree in English and psychology, and has since worked both as a news journalist and as a freelance writer. In 2024 she curated Mapping The Land, the Irish Rep’s exhibition on Brian Friel.
Clare O’Malley —an actress/singer/songwriter — was last seen on the Mainstage in “Philadelphia, Here I Come!” and before that with her solo show, “Transatlantic Living” for which she received an Agility Award (Irish Arts Council). In addition to her extensive acting resume, her debut EP is scheduled for release later this year.
Through the half-hour discussion, the panelists spoke to an audience of actors and potential theater professionals about motivation, inspiration and perspiration. All of them encouraged the crowd never to be daunted by a “No” or “Not Interested.” The all stressed that being run New York encouraged them to get out their Irish skin and be inspired.
It was also stressed there will be more mixers like this inaugural one in the near future.