‘I’ve always put a small amount away each month for my children since they were born’

The National Concert Hall recently announced details of its 2024-2025 season.

Are you a saver or a spender?

I’ve always put a small amount away each month for my children since they were born. I hope this will give them a head start with their further education. I’m not a materially motivated person and therefore I’ve never been a big spender, but my wife and I prioritise cultural experiences and family holidays.

Do you shop around for better value?

Absolutely. I don’t like to spend any more on anything than I need to, especially on groceries with a family, three cats and a dog to feed. I’ll always do plenty of research before making any significant purchases.

What has been your most extravagant purchase and how much did it cost?

I’m not sure about ever but the most recent extravagance was on holiday in west Cork last year. As a wedding anniversary gift to each other, my wife and I treated ourselves to the taster menu at Michelin-star restaurant Dede in Baltimore. So far, it is the most incredible dining experience we’ve had in Ireland.

[ A new vision for a reimagined National Concert Hall ]

What purchase have you made that you consider the best value for money?

I think all the purchases I’ve made throughout my life on tickets to concerts, opera and cultural events have had such a profound and life-long impact on me, far exceeding the monetary value of the ticket.

Do you haggle over prices?

No, but haggling is one of my wife’s many superpowers.

Do you invest in shares?

Having always worked in the art and culture areas, I’ve never had this luxury.

Cash or card?

Card, always. I love the cashless society.

What was the last thing you bought and was it good value for money?

Tickets to see SZA with my daughter at Malahide Castle in July – we’re both big fans. There is nothing better than the power of live music and performance and the connection that can be created between artist and the audience. With my job, I’m privileged to experience that on a daily basis.

Have you ever successfully saved up for a relatively big purchase?

Yes, for the deposit on our house in Harlesden, when we lived in London.

Have you ever lost money?

While I was doing my degree at art school, I had a Saturday job at HMV Oxford Circus. I was paid in cash and once lost a whole day’s wages when I was mugged on my way home.

Are you a gambler and, if so, have you ever had a big win?

I’ve had the occasional successful flutter on the Grand National, but I’m not really a gambler.

Is money important to you?

Yes, in so far as I would love to be in a position to provide for my family and my children’s future. As someone who moved to Ireland in 2021, I would dearly like for my family and I to plant permanent roots here.

How much money do you have on you now?

None. I always rely on Apple Pay on my phone.

In conversation with Tony Clayton-Lea