Memories of Mary McPartlan – Colleague and Friend

Your beautiful rich voice singing ‘Rainy Night in Soho’ or singing of ‘ancestors’ bones’ or of ‘Barbara Allen’… the banter and the craic of an evening shared together with colleagues…. 
And plans, plans and ideas hatched for what could be delivered….
How do we sustain the spark that you ignited? The passion which you hold…
Always the aim, the desire, to let all the young and exuberant folk see, not just see, but experience, the treasures of the Arts.
Artists doing their thing….enthralling.

You had the vision, yours was the strength, the excitement, and I repeat again, the passion. The bridge-builder, connection creator, you let nothing hold you back. You could envisage something, beautifully created, collaborated. I remember that ‘aha’ moment that you shared, when it came to you, this endeavour would be ever bigger, full of potential, not limited. It would be expansive. Not just Arts within Arts, but Arts for all our students. It would be Arts in Action!

And so you embarked on this adventure. On a shoestring, no matter, there would be a way. And you carried on undaunted. The magic would happen, year after year. Giftedness brought to us, talents and ideas shared. Cajole, persuade, inspire because you believe in bringing the treasure to all.

We miss your presence, your talent, your utter determination. But most of all we miss you our warm, passionate and brave friend and colleague.