Brian Friel, one of Ireland’s best respected playwrights, has passed away at the age of 86.
Friel’s body of work contains several internationally beloved plays such as Philadelphia, Here I Come and Dancing at Lughnasa, which won three Tony Awards in 1992 as well as the Laurence Olivier Award for Best Play.
Friel, originally from Derry, wrote over 30 plays throughout his career and will be remembered as a giant of Irish literature.
Many have paid tribute to Friel’s legacy:
Brian Friel has died, it is reported. An immense and humane voice in theatre, will endure centuries. RIP.
— Libby Purves (@lib_thinks) October 2, 2015
The Arts Council has expressed its regret at the passing of playwright Brian Friel http://t.co/iB5QQRl1XL
— The Arts Council / An Chomhairle Ealaíon (@artscouncil_ie) October 2, 2015
https://twitter.com/ElaineByrne/status/649872953560199169
He is survived by his wife, Anne, and their five children.
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