Following the success of its first year, the acclaimed and unique Shared Island cultural exchange project, The Ties That Bind, returns this summer with a second iteration of cross-community collaboration between two of Ireland’s best-known and well-loved venues from opposite corners of the island – Levis’ Corner House (Ballydehob, West Cork) and The Duncairn (North Belfast).
Since July 2024, local artists from each area have taken part in residential exchanges, swapping rural Ballydehob, West Cork for the Inner-City North Belfast, and vice versa. Musicians, writers and visual artists have been collaborating on new work, inspiring participation and dialogue and bringing the two communities – over 500km apart – even closer together.
Funded by the Creative Ireland Programme’s Shared Island initiative, the project continues to explore themes of identity, creativity, and connection across borders—using music, storytelling, and shared experiences to deepen cultural understanding.
Duncairn Takes Over Ballydehob – 10–13 July 2025
This year’s programme begins with a four-day festival-style “takeover” of Levis’ Corner House by artists and creatives from the Duncairn, bringing Belfast’s bold and diverse cultural scene to the heart of rural West Cork.
Programme Highlights Include:
- 10 July – Hello, How Are You? Tell Me Your Name?
A warm, informal opening session to welcome all guests and set the tone for the weekend. - 11 July – Introducing…
A showcase of four emerging artists from the Duncairn community: Rua, Sammy Copley, Polar Bolero, and a headline performance from the Joshua Burnside Trio. - 12 July – Creative Collective Showcase
A rich and varied night featuring performances and work from members of the Duncairn Creative Collective—an evening of multidisciplinary talent, from music and poetry to visual storytelling. - 13 July – Super Sunday
A joyful day of family-friendly music, conversation, and food to wrap up the takeover weekend in true Duncairn-Levis’ style.
Following the Ballydehob events in July, the second half of the exchange will see Levis’ Corner House travel to Belfast in November 2025, bringing West Cork’s distinct creative flavour to The Duncairn and its audiences.
The Ties That Bind offers more than just performances—it builds lasting artistic and personal and friendships. As with last year’s exchanges, the project continues to provide artists from both communities the time and space for residencies, collaborations, and creative development.
Joe Kelly & Caroline O’Donnell, Levis’ Corner House: “This isn’t just a gig or a series of shows—it’s a relationship. We’re creating bonds between artists and communities that will last well beyond this project.”
Ray Giffen, The Duncairn: “We’re excited to be back in Ballydehob. This project proves that culture connects in ways politics cannot—it’s an exchange of stories, traditions, and genuine friendship.”
