University College Dublin President Professor Orla Feely’s week was a whirlwind of academic duties and cultural delights. Amidst a packed schedule, she managed to squeeze in a performance of Verdi’s “La Traviata” and a beloved annual Christmas concert.
“It was a wonderful experience,” Feely saeid of the opera. “The music was simply breathtaking, and the performance was truly captivating.”
The Christmas concert, a cherished tradition at UCD, provided a festive atmosphere and a chance for the university community to come together. “The Christmas concert is always a highlight of the year,” Feely remarked. “It’s a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the season and enjoy the talents of our students and faculty.”
Despite her busy schedule, Feely emphasized the importance of finding time for cultural experiences. “It’s essential to nourish our minds and souls,” she said. “Music and the arts have the power to inspire and uplift us.”
Balancing Academia with the Arts: A Conversation with UCD President Orla feely
Table of Contents
Amidst the demands of leading a world-renowned institution like University College Dublin,President Professor Orla Feely finds solace and inspiration in the arts. Recently,Professor Feely squeezed in both a performance of Verdi’s “La Traviata” and UCD’s cherished annual Christmas concert into her busy schedule. We sat down with Professor Feely to discuss the importance of cultural experiences, even amidst demanding academic pursuits.
A Commitment to Culture
World Today News:** Professor Feely, thank you for taking the time to speak with us. You recently attended a performance of “La Traviata” – what was that experiance like for you?
Professor Feely: It was a marvelous experience. The music was simply breathtaking, and the performance was truly captivating. Such artistry provides a much-needed escape and source of inspiration.
The UCD Christmas concert is another crucial annual event. What role does it play within the university community?
Professor Feely: the Christmas concert is always a highlight of the year. It’s a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the season and enjoy the talents of our students and faculty.It fosters a sense of community and shared joy.
“It’s essential to nourish our minds and souls. Music and the arts have the power to inspire and uplift us.” – Professor Orla Feely
The Power of Creative Expression
World Today News: You’ve highlighted the importance of finding time for cultural enrichment. Why do you believe these experiences are so crucial,especially in the context of demanding academic roles?
Professor Feely: It’s remarkably easy to become overly focused on the practical,the logistical,the day-to-day demands of university leadership. Engaging with the arts reminds us of the power of creativity, of emotional expression, and the beauty that exists beyond the purely academic. It expands our horizons and allows us to see the world from different perspectives.
Encouraging a Culture of Creativity
World Today News: How do you encourage creativity and thankfulness for the arts within the UCD community?
Professor Feely: We strive to weave the arts into the fabric of university life. From supporting student music and theater groups to hosting world-class exhibitions and performances right here on campus, we aim to create an environment where creativity flourishes.
Looking Ahead: The Interplay of Academia and the Arts
World today News: Looking to the future,do you foresee a growing intersection between academia and the arts?
Professor Feely: I absolutely do. The boundaries between disciplines are becoming increasingly blurred, and there is a growing recognition of the value of interdisciplinary approaches. I believe we will see even more exciting collaborations between artists and academics, leading to innovative insights and creative solutions to complex challenges.
Key Takeaways and Call to Action
Professor feely’s insights highlight the importance of prioritizing cultural experiences, not as luxuries, but as essential elements for personal growth, intellectual nourishment, and fostering a vibrant and thriving community.
We encourage our readers to share their thoughts on the connection between academia and the arts. What role do the arts play in yoru life? What are some examples of accomplished collaborations between these two fields?
For related articles exploring the intersections of education and the arts, please visit our Arts & Education section.
