The staff, board and wider Lyric family are devastated to learn about the passing of actor, playwright and dear friend Michael Patrick.
Michael Patrick’s portrayal of Richard III in a now legendary production was one of the greatest performances ever on the Lyric stage. In its eloquence, wit and haunting bravery, he was inspirational. The Stage Magazine said he “deliver[ed] a masterclass in Shakespearean verse speaking, unflinchingly underlining the fleeting nature of life and stripping himself bare in an unforgettable act of physical expression and artistic courage,” and deservedly they awarded Michael the Special Judges Award.
Michael has been part of the Lyric family for many years, from performing his first one-man show, I, Banquo, to his work on Blackout with our Creative Learning department, and later with the incredible The Tragedy of Richard III.
His work as a writer and actor has been hugely impactful, co-authoring with his great friend and collaborator Oisín Kearney My Left Nut, My Right Foot, The Border Game, and the wise and witty state of the nation play The Alternative. He used the slings and arrows of the outrageous fortune thrown at him and turned them into visceral and vibrant art.
Mick showed great strength and dignity in light of his diagnosis with Motor Neurone Disease (MND). He remained resilient and focused, creating dynamic work throughout his struggles. He performed on the Lyric stage just last November with his autobiographical My Right Foot.
We at the Lyric pay tribute to his remarkable talent and send our deepest condolences to his wife Naomi, his mother and family, and all his friends and colleagues at this sad time. These islands have lost a great artist, and the sky is brighter tonight with his star.
Jimmy Fay
Lyric Theatre, Executive Producer