BAG OF CATS
Know Promises Theatre Collective is proud to announce the Bag of Cats Award, a brand new opportunity created specifically for graduates of the Performing Arts (Acting) programme at ATU Sligo. This award marks the first trial of a new supporting residency designed to nurture emerging artists as they step from training into professional practice.
The Bag of Cats Award is open to graduates based in Sligo and offers a unique chance to step directly into the creative life and 2026 plans of Know Promises Theatre Collective. The selected recipient will be invited into an active, international ensemble environment that centres collaboration, experimentation, and the creation of bold new work.
BAG OF CATS
2026
Rachel Donlon
Remi Quill
Freya McBride
Rachel Donlon is a performer from Kildare and a soon-to-be graduate of the Performing Arts programme at ATU Sligo. Her foundational experience began with Kildare Youth Theatre, where devising was a primary element, before moving to Sligo full-time to pursue her degree.
Outside of her studies, she has participated in theatre productions such as Pop-Up Theatre’s 2025 production of Sweeney Todd. She has appeared in numerous independent and RTÉ-funded short films, some of which were screened at this year’s Dublin International Film Festival. In addition to her performance work, she has gained industry experience as a background artist on major TV series and feature films.
Driven by a passion for Celtic Mythology and innovative Irish storytelling, she recently co-founded a production company alongside her colleague, Freya McBride, where they are currently working on their first Irish language short film.
An emerging performer and director with a strong interest in storytelling, collaboration, and creative exploration. After rediscovering her passion for performance following her college studies, she has continued to develop her confidence and refine her artistic voice.
Her work is driven by a curiosity for bold ideas and a commitment to shared creative processes. She is particularly drawn to collaborative environments, where she can challenge herself, expand her practice, and contribute to dynamic, ensemble-led work.
Remi is currently part of the Bag of Cats Award residency with KPTC, where she continues to grow as an artist while developing new work alongside fellow creatives.
Freya McBride is 22 and originally from Kildare. She is currently in her final year of Performing Arts at ATU Sligo. From a young age, she has always had a love for performing, whether acting or dancing, and is excited to continue growing her skills and knowledge while sharing her love of the stage with a wider audience. She has a passion for theatre performance and creation and enjoys working in collaboration with other artists. The freedom of expression within the arts, where nothing ever has to fit into a particular box, is what keeps her driven and excited to be within the creative field. Her most recent creative venture is co-founding a production company called An Comhar Productions with her colleague Rachel Donlon.
What the Bag of Cats Award Offers
The Bag of Cats Award provides a structured yet flexible residency that supports both artistic development and professional sustainability. The selected graduate will receive:
One-to-one mentoring with a selected collective member, consisting of five one-hour sessions
Five intensive group workshops, each led by a different collective member, combining skills across devising, performance, writing, and collaboration
Practical guidance in producing, creating, planning, and sustaining work as a professional actor in today’s theatre landscape
Active involvement in Arts Council funding applications, with hands-on insight into the application process
Invitations to all Know Promises Theatre Collective work developments, showcases, and sharings
An invitation to create and develop an original piece of work, with full support from Know Promises Theatre Collective and The Nest (Branching Out) initiative, through the Bag of Cats Award, we aim to offer more than training. We aim to provide connection, access, and a genuine pathway into professional theatre-making.
We are excited to support the next generation of artists emerging from ATU Sligo and to continue building a vibrant theatre ecology in the Northwest and beyond.
My Approach
What began as a passion project has evolved into something more. We’re proud of where we’ve been and even more excited for what’s ahead. What sets us apart isn’t just our process—it’s the intention behind it. We take time to understand, explore, and create with purpose at every turn.
Simple ideas
Through every step, we've focused on staying true to our values and making space for thoughtful, lasting work.
Lasting impact
We build with clarity, act with integrity, and always stay curious.