Ciara O'Connell, a seasoned arts professional, excels in producing large-scale events and festivals, including notable projects like Púca Festival and Spectra Festival of Light Aberdeen. As a Senior Producer at Curated Place, she demonstrates expertise in developing and executing cultural strategies and securing high-value tenders. With a background in project management and leadership, Ciara is a trusted trainer and facilitator for the British Council's Agile Creative Producer Programme.

Her extensive experience includes curating events, managing budgets, negotiating partnerships, and overseeing marketing strategies. As the Founder/Artistic Director of Central Arts & Churchyard Sessions in Waterford, Ireland, she led their growth into a leading attraction, securing substantial funding and implementing hybrid models. Ciara's skills in leadership, communication, and problem-solving drive her success in the arts sector, where she continuously seeks opportunities for growth and innovation.

Ciara has worked on a number of projects since joining Promenade in February 2022 as Project Manager, providing support in an administrative, research, project support, and development capacity.

Producing credits include: Cork Midsummer Festival ‘The Wind That Shakes The Wig’, by renowned drag artist Candy Warhol, and Circus Factory’s ‘Four Lovers’. Ciara recently completed work co-producing Pitch’d Circus & Street Arts Festival, including leading on a late-night Culture Night event ‘Candy’s Sweet As Circus Cabaret’ in collaboration with the queer performance collective Mockie Ah, as one of 19 flagship late-night events in the country.

Inclusivity and diversity are at the heart of their artistic practice, working to create equal opportunities for those underrepresented in the arts. Ciara currently sits on the board for the National Circus Festival of Ireland and is the Community Artist Curator in Residence for the St. Patrick's Festival 2024 with Cork City Council.