The Irish World Academy is profoundly saddened to hear of the passing of our Founding Director, Emeritus Professor Mícheál Ó Súilleabháin. Mícheál was the driving force behind the establishment and growth of the Irish World Academy since his appointment as Chair of Music in 1994. Those of us on the UL campus who have had the privilege of working with him were swept along by his incredible energy, joie de vivre and vision. His many achievements include the establishment of unique programmes in music and dance, the equal honouring of performance and reflection, and the beautiful Academy building which has been aptly christened the House of Light. Mícheál has been a major international figure in the arts, and has been particularly important as an educator, composer and performer. However, for many of us who knew him personally, it is his generosity of spirit, his unique turn of phrase, his thoughtfulness and his irrepressible energy which come to mind today. He is irreplaceable but his legacy is assured. Ní bheidh a leithéid ann arís.

We just got our copy of Dr. Orfhlaith Ni Bhriain and Mick McCabe’s book “Jigs to Jacobites”! We were honoured to have Orfhlaith and Mick present their research during the Francis Roche Memorial lecture in 2018. Such a wealth of information and beautifully illustrated throughout. But we have to say our favourite image is the poor créatúr under the White Blanket! Copies available from http://trad.dance/

Hot off the press, our 2019 Blas Poster! The best way to beat back to school blues is counting down to summer holidays!! Help us share and spread the word! #blas2019

Matt Molloy, John Carty & Arty McGlynn, with support from Ciaran McLoughlin and Madlaina Küng Photos © Maurice Gunning