Disc Jockey Marcus O’Laoire is the hot favourite to get the crowds dancing at Bulmers Live at Leopardstown racecourse this week.
Whether he’s behind the decks or behind the pass in a bustling kitchen, Marcus O’Laoire is a man who knows how to bring the energy. A true multi-hyphenate creative force, Marcus has carved out a unique space for himself in Dublin’s cultural scene, seamlessly blending his passions for music, food, and unforgettable live entertainment. As a DJ, his sets are known for their infectious grooves and crowd-moving vibes. As a chef and food entrepreneur, he’s contributed to some of the city’s tastiest projects.
Now, Marcus is gearing up for yet another electric event, performing at Bulmers Live at Leopardstown on July 10th, an evening that promises great racing, refreshing drinks, and top-tier music. Ahead of the show, we caught up with Marcus to chat about adapting to unique venues, the crossover between music and food, and why now is the perfect time to be a creative in Ireland. From familiar anthems to underground gems, and from tasty edits to tasty eats, Marcus is always serving something fresh. Whether you know him from the decks, the kitchen, or a wild night of Bingo Loco chaos, one thing’s certain: he’s here for the craic and ready to get the party started, wherever that may be.
How do you prepare for a unique venue like Leopardstown, where you’re not just playing for club-goers but also race fans, families, and festival lovers?
I think the beautiful thing about Ireland is that we’re ready to start a party anywhere. I’ve played gigs in pubs, clubs, on boats, on streets, in sheds, on farms, in fields – kind of all over the place. The location just makes it a little bit more fun. And in terms of the audience, I think people going to the races are generally up for a good time, and I think that’ll carry through.
How do you adapt your set when you move from late-night venues to more eclectic events like this?
I generally play a different set every single time I perform. I just go by what’s in front of me. Some crowds like more lyrics and well-known tunes, others prefer more underground stuff. The real joy in what I do is getting to tailor everything, every single time, to the audience that’s in front of me.
What can fans expect from your set on July 10th? Are you planning anything special or different?
I’ve got a lot of really good edits and mixes that I’m working in. It’s a hybrid Guilty Treasures set – that’s a party brand I’m developing, focused on music that’s familiar, that people aren’t afraid to dance or sing along to, grab your mates. I’ve got a lot of stuff prepared that’s classic, but not overly so.
You’re not just a DJ – you’re a chef, brand director, and a voice in Dublin’s creative scene. Do these roles influence one another – and if so, how?
Music and food hit the same place in my brain. Making something tasty and playing a good set satisfies the same part of me. I think about them in the same way. What I’ve realised over the years is that creatively, they fulfill me in very similar ways. So there’s definitely some crossover. As you get better at cooking, you get better at DJing – they tickle the same mental synapses.
You’ve been involved in Irish culture in many forms. What excites you most about the creative scene in Dublin right now?
I think there’s a huge independent scene bubbling at the moment. There’s so much talent in Ireland – in music, food, theatre, comedy, acting, fashion. There’s so much going on at a grassroots level, and everyone is supporting each other, which is something I haven’t seen in a long time. Everyone wants the best for everyone, and there’s a huge amount of mutual uplift across the larger scene. That’s really exciting. If that’s where we are now, just imagine where we could be in three to five years.
You’ve built a career that blends nightlife, food, media, and music. What advice would you give to young creatives trying to carve out their own multi-passionate path?
I’d say: just get up and do it. Now more than ever, it’s easier to find a market and put your stuff out there on socials. And if you don’t want to do that, I’d advise you to just go to gigs. Support the industry you want to be part of. Get to know promoters, bookers, and the people actually making things happen in your scene. Like I said, the scene is supporting itself right now – people are really keen to see others get involved.
There’s never been a better time to just go out and do it. I promise it’s worth it. Treat it like something you love – something fun that you enjoy. Don’t expect money or headlines at the start. Enjoy the process, and you’ll have a great time.
Is there a song you always keep in your back pocket, just in case?
Oh, that’s a good question… but I can’t give away all my secrets.
Marcus O’Laoire plays Bulmers Live at Leopardstown on Thursday, 10th July. Tickets on sale now with packages starting from just €30 (excl.booking fee), available from leopardstown.com
