Miriam Dunne's creative flair and talent leaves a lasting legacy
The late Miriam Dunne
The death has occurred of prominent arts manager and festival programmer Miriam Dunne.
A resident of Manor Street, Waterford City, Miriam passed away on Saturday, December 21, peacefully at University Hospital Waterford, surrounded by her loving family.
Miriam programmed Spraoi International Street Arts Festival since its inception and created extensive international cultural networks for Waterford.
Her other production credits include Cat Laughs and Kilkenomics in Kilkenny, Dublin Docklands Festival and onshore entertainment for two Tall Ships Races in Waterford.
She also worked with Waterford company EveryEvent, served as a member of the Arts Council and was the Chairperson of ISACS, Ireland’s national body representing circus and street performance artists.
The Chairperson of Waterford Spraoi, Jaimie Dower, said: “Miriam leaves an outstanding legacy. She had an immeasurable influence on the development of street performance in Ireland.
"As a programmer, she brought her imaginative and organisational skills to bear to create unique experiences for audiences in Waterford and beyond. Her work is known and hugely respected by her peers nationally and internationally. Above all that though, her contagious enthusiasm and energy will never be forgotten by anyone who worked with or even met her.
"We, in Spraoi are incredibly proud of her and we extend our heartfelt sympathy to her extended family.”
EveryEvent also extended their condolences, stating: "All of us at EveryEvent are heartbroken to hear of the passing of our dear friend, colleague and family, Miriam Dunne. Miriam was an invaluable part of our team since the beginning... we owe her so much. Our hearts are with Miriam's family, friends and vast network of colleagues across the arts community globally."
Miriam Dunne contributed to an array of Waterford arts projects. She administered the then emerging Red Kettle Theatre Company, and she pioneered Teenage Kicks, an initiative to promote young Waterford bands and musicians.
Predeceased by her father Leo Dunne, her mother Martha Dunne (née Power) and her sister Catherine Partridge, Miriam is deeply missed and lovingly remembered by her son Christopher, grandchildren Molly and Leo, sister Liz, brothers Paul and Liam, daughter-in-law Liz, goddaughter Jennifer, sister-in-law Bern and all her nieces, nephews, aunts, cousins, extended family, neighbours, colleagues and many friends.
She will repose at Thompson's Funeral Home, Barrack Street, Waterford on Friday, December 27, from 7pm to 8.30pm.
Miriam’s funeral cortege will be walking from her residence on Manor Street on Saturday, December 28, to St. John’s Church, Parnell Street for Requiem Mass on arrival at 9.30am, followed by burial in St. Otteran's Cemetery, Waterford.
Mass will also be live-streamed from 9.20am by following the Funeral Service link.
Family flowers only please, donations in lieu if desired to Waterford Hospice or the Solas Cancer Support Centre, Waterford.
The Dunne family would like to thank with great appreciation all the staff in the Oak Ward, Dunmore Wing, at University Hospital Waterford for the care and respect Miriam received throughout her illness.
May she rest in peace.
