Cork GAA forge new partnership with Cork Opera House

On Tuesday morning, Cork GAA announced a new partnership with a famed Cork institution that has also provided many magical memories for its legions of devoted supporters.  

This year, Cork Opera House celebrates its 170th anniversary. The remarkable longevity of the Opera House is testament to the central role it has played in the cultural life of Cork over several generations, and reflects the great pride that the people of Cork have in it.

To mark this significant anniversary, Cork GAA is formally joining with Cork Opera House in launching a new partnership. This development is only fitting, as it acknowledges the historic and enduring importance of these two great Cork institutions in the social and cultural fabric of the city and county, and the extraordinary contributions they have made to Cork people and their communities. 

Welcoming the launch of the partnership, Cork GAA CEO Kevin O’Donovan highlighted the coming together of two entities with a similar vision for Cork, noting that: “Both Cork GAA and Cork Opera House have a common identity. Each is committed to promoting excellence in their respective fields, and to providing joy and entertainment for their followers. 

"But more especially, they are also symbols of what it means to be from Cork, and their respective importance to the people of Cork. We in Cork GAA are delighted to be associated with such a beloved Cork institution."

At the announcement of the partnership, Eibhlín Gleeson, Cork Opera House CEO said: “We’re thrilled to team up with Cork GAA as we head into our 170th anniversary year. Both Cork Opera House and Cork GAA are at the heart of this city, bringing people together through tradition, passion, and community. 

"It’s rare to see the world of sports and the arts come together like this, which makes this partnership really special. We’re proud to celebrate what makes Cork unique and look forward to working together throughout this milestone year and beyond." 

Cork GAA Commercial Director Sinéad O'Keeffe commented at the launch of the partnership highlighting the importance of both Cork GAA and Cork Opera House to the economic and commercial wellbeing of the city and county, observing that: "Cork Opera House and SuperValu Páirc Uí Chaoimh are both places that are an intrinsic part of the landscape of the city. 

"As well as hosting significant events for Cork people to enjoy and savour, they are full of great memories of people and performances from the past that continue to inspire us. Long may both continue to play such a huge part in the sporting and cultural lives of Cork people."