Person to Person: Daniel Cremin on his proudest moment, Lucy the dog, and his upcoming show 

Tell us about yourself

My name is Daniel Cremin, and I am a 24-year-old writer, producer, performer and magician (and whatever else I say yes to in order to avoid ever having to get a ‘real’ job, so they say).

My background is in theatre, even though I went on to do an undergrad in Social Science at UCC. I jumped back into the arts world with an MA in Arts Management and Creative Producing in UCC, in partnership with Cork Opera House.

Since I was four years old, I have had an interest in magic and I perform regularly. I currently combine magic with theatre to create magic plays such as my new self-produced play WHY MAGIC? at The Everyman on August 28.

Where were you born?

I was born in Cork and have been here all my life. I love it in Cork, but then again, doesn’t every Corkonian.

Where do you live?

I live in Douglas, Cork.

Family?

I have two brothers, one older and one younger, and a 13-year-old Jack Russell named Lucy, who is basically a little sister. Especially if you ask my mum.

Best friend?

Hard to pick one. I have a couple of really great friends around me who are extremely supportive and encouraging of everything I do, and I know that there would be times that I’d be lost without them.

Earliest childhood memory?

One of my earliest childhood memories was seeing a production of The Hunchback Of Notre Dame musical live. Everything about it made me want to jump into the world of creating and do that!

Person you most admire?

I have major respect and admiration for the magician, mind-reader, and all-around performer Derren Brown. Derren’s knowledge of theatre, magic, and mentalism is something to be applauded. But what I really admire about him is the time he gives to people. Whether it’s fans at the stage door or magicians looking for advice, Derren is extremely supportive of the craft, and I can personally vouch for his generosity from a magician’s perspective.

Person who most irritates you?

I can’t stand people who are rude or entitled!

Where was your most memorable holiday?

I think one of the most memorable holidays I have ever been on was a trip to Italy! It was here that I saw that production of The Hunchback Of Notre Dame and I guess you could say that experience kick-started my love for the arts.

Favourite TV programme?

I have just finished watching Slow Horses and cannot wait for the new season.

Favourite radio show?

Without question, The Arts House With Elmarie Mawe on 96fm!

Your signature dish if cooking?

I’m not huge on cooking, but do love a bit of baking! My favourite would have to be my double chocolate chip brownies!

Favourite restaurant?

Definitely Koto on Carey’s Lane in Cork City. Try the hoisin chicken wings!

Last book you read?

I am currently in the middle of Unreasonable Hospitality by Will Guidara. A fantastic read.

Best book you read?

One of the best books I have read is by Sara Baume called Handiwork. It does a phenomenal job of capturing the essence of creating and living as an artist.

Last album/CD/download you bought?

The last album I downloaded was SONS by Sons of The East.

Favourite song?

I have so many, but a few favourites at the moment would be Out There from The Hunchback of Notre Dame (you may be noticing a trend), 10 Days by Sons of The East, and Baker by Aimee Carty.

One person you would like to see in concert?

I would love to see Mandy Patinkin live!

Do you have a pet?

I do! I have a 13-year-old Jack Russell named Lucy. And she still acts like a pup!

Morning person or night owl?

A bit of both. I stay up late but still get up early. Have to pack as much into the day as I can!

Your proudest moment?

My proudest moment so far has been performing my first one man show IT’S ALL AN ACT! at Dance Cork Firkin Crane in 2023, however, knowing that my new play WHY MAGIC? is on in the Everyman on August 28 will surpass that soon, I feel!

Spendthrift or saver?

A bit of both. I go through phases. A saver until I’m not!

Name one thing you would improve in your area in which you live?

Ahh sure, I wouldn’t be one to complain!

What makes you happy?

Seeing talented people getting the recognition that they deserve.

How would you like to be remembered?

I think I would like to be remembered as someone who was kind and authentic, supported artists, and found a way for magic to have a meaningful place in the Irish theatre landscape.

What else are you up to at the moment?

As well as the final prep for my show WHY MAGIC? at The Everyman on August 28, I am also the co-founder and Director of Cork Fringe, along with Ineke Lavers. We are in pre-production for the 2nd edition of the Fringe in 2026 at the moment, so it’s all go!