Arts highlights of 2022: Alan Bradley

Actor and documentary film-maker from Virginia.

Personal highlight for 2022?

Unspoken, a documentary I directed and produced for RTÉ focussing on the experience of Irish men with eating disorders, being recognised with two awards at the Headline Mental Health in Media Awards 2022.

Best live show you saw this year?

I've wanted to see Punchdrunk theatre company's work for years but have always missed the boat. I was lucky enough to see their new show in London, 'The Burnt City' this year and it blew me away. It's an immersive retelling of Greek Tragedies and huge in scale and impact.

TV/cinema highlight?

An Cailín Ciúin directed by Colm Bairéad was fantastic. Kate McCullough's imagery was stunning and it's a moving, evocative story. Great to see the Irish language on screen in such an engaging way.

Favourite book?

White City by Kevin Power. Darkly funny yet profound, it was a really entertaining page turner and it was nice to read something contemporary set in Ireland.

One to watch?

During the year I led an Acting for Camera workshop with POD Youth Theatre in Virginia ran by the incredible Trina McCann. I was blown away by the talent of the young people in the group - they are all ones to watch for the future for sure!

Wish for 2023?

I'm really looking forward to the Ramor Theatre re-opening hopefully this coming year in Virginia. It'll be great to have the buzz of live theatre back in the town!