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Surprise concert marks Ethna’s achievements
By Fiona Audley
 Eloquent
instruments joined magnificent voices at a surprise tribute event held
in honour of the woman who has kept Irish culture alive in the capital
for more than 30 years.
Friends of the Irish Heritage group which showcases some of the best professional
Irish performers in concerts across the capital, turned out in force to
pay tribute to its artistic director and founder Ethna Kennedy.
Ethna is originally from Castlebar in Mayo and formed the arts organisation
with her husband Charles in 1974 as a voluntary society which would promote
the Celtic arts in London and across the country.
And the former librarian, who came to England in 1953, continues to ensure
that they offer performers young and old a plethora of high-level venues
and concerts in which to showcase their talents.
But she had no idea that the concert she was attending last week was being
held in her honour.
A delighted Ethna spoke to The Irish Post following the event, held at
London’s Irish Embassy, and said: “It was an absolutely exquisite
night although I couldn’t understand why they were paying tribute
to me; I thought it was a reception for Irish Heritage, so I was very
surprised.
“So many wonderful international stars gave up their time to come
and perform and my family were all there too, so it was a lovely evening
with great performances.
“I thought I knew everything that went on in Irish Heritage but
they hid this very well — they’ll be at confession 20 times
over for all the lying!”
The evening was opened by the Irish Ambassador David Cooney and performers,
many whose early careers were boosted by the esteemed organisation, included
harpist Jean Kelly, soprano Ailish Tynan and actor Donal Cox.
Soprano Jean Holmes, who performed at the organisation’s first concert
in April 1974, also performed on the night.
Irish Heritage’s chairman Niall Gallagher has known its remarkable
founder for 20 years.
He said: “Wednesday’s concert was a long overdue tribute to
somebody who started something in difficult times which has endured and
grown to provide a significant contribution to the cultural life of the
Irish community here in London.
“It has greatly extended the appreciation of Irish culture and music
here while providing a fantastic space where our talented young artists
can come and display their skills.
“These were not only tributes to the wonderful achievements of the
past but to Ethna as the active person she continues to be and the many
plans she has for the future of Irish Heritage.”
Irish Heritage bring Night At The Opera: The Empress And The Count,
to St. James’ in Piccadilly, on Thursday, April 10. The event starts
at 7.30pm and remembers the work of world-renowned Irish Opera singers
Margaret Sheridan and John McCormack. For further information or for a
list of all upcoming concerts visit www.irishheritage.co.uk
More pictures next week. |
