Some photographs of Peter O’Toole

The Old Vic theatre in London will never be the same again, after a visit from Agnes Curley! In the nineteen eighties, Agnes, ever involved in the local community, sought to make contact with a celebrity to help out with fund-raising for the Clifden drama group. Peter O’Toole had bought a house on the Sky road in Clifden and a match was made. It was the beginning of a life-long friendship, one that involved laughter and fun, but one which also included reflection on spirituality. The play, written by Agnes, actually won the All Ireland final and went on to be performed in the Gate theatre.

President Michael D. Higgins, his wife Sabina and Kate O’Toole

Peter died a short time ago and, to honour his memory, his daughter Kate organised a celebrity night in the prestigious London theatre, known affectionately as the Old Vic. The enormous theatre was full to capacity but only four people were invited from Ireland: President Michael D. Higgins, his wife Sabina, singer Sharon Shannon and Agnes!

Agnes is seen above between the actors Jeremy Irons and Sinéad Cusack

In the accompanying radio interview, Agnes gives an account of the wondrous night and even sings the ditty she had composed for the event. For this, she was accompanied by Sharon Shannon, however, she can perform it a cappella, as she does for the programme. She also reads once more the Irish blessing she adapted for the memorial, to finish off what, by all accounts, was a splendid night. Many of the group went on to party into the small hours in the Garrick Club in Covent Garden. As you can imagine, Agnes starred once again, meeting even more of the celebrated assembly.

Agnes, between the actors Kevin Spacey and Benedict Cumberbatch

Another friend of Peter O’Toole was our Irish President and he gave fitting tribute to the actor. Recalling his friendship with Peter, he told how the actor gave hospitality to the Higgins family in his Clifden home. This is being repaid, as the President is now giving refuge to Peter O’Toole’s ashes, until they are scattered in the Clifden area. No doubt, Agnes will be invited to participate in this ceremony too.

The Garrick private gentlemen’s club, where the party finally finished

To listen to the radio interview with Agnes, just click on the link below.

*Photographs used with kind permission of Kate O’Toole and Philip Nolan, from the Daily Mail

Suzanne Ryder rsm
Western Province