Mary O'Malley (director) facts for kids

Mary O'Malley was an amazing Irish theatre director. She was born Mary Hickey on July 28, 1918, in Mallow, County Cork. She passed away on April 22, 2006, in Booterstown, County Dublin. Mary, along with her husband Pearse, started the famous Lyric Players Theatre in Belfast. Today, it's simply known as the Lyric Theatre, Belfast.

A Life in Theatre

Mary O'Malley dedicated her life to the arts. She helped create a special place for theatre in Ireland. Her work made a big difference in the cultural scene.

Early Life and Family

On September 14, 1947, Mary married Dr. Pearse O’Malley. They got married in Dublin. Soon after, they moved to Belfast. This move was the start of her exciting journey in theatre.

Serving the Community

Mary was also involved in local government. In May 1952, she was chosen as a councillor for the Smithfield area. She represented the Irish Labour Party in Belfast. This showed her commitment to her community.

Supporting the Arts

Mary O'Malley was a true champion for artists. In 1958, she became an honorary member of the Ulster Society of Women Artists. This group supported women in art. She also started a literary magazine called Threshold in 1959. This magazine gave writers a place to share their stories and poems.

Starting the Lyric Theatre

Mary's biggest dream was to create a theatre. In March 1951, she launched Belfast’s Lyric Players Theatre. It first started in Ulsterville House. The very next year, it moved to the stables behind her home. This was on Derryvolgie Avenue, near the Malone Road. It was a humble beginning for a grand theatre.

A New Home for Theatre

The Lyric Theatre grew very popular. So, a brand new building was needed. In October 1968, a purpose-built Lyric Theatre opened. It was located on Ridgeway Street. Mary O'Malley chose the opening date carefully. It was a tribute to a speech by US President John F. Kennedy. He spoke about the important role of artists in society.

Later Years

In 1976, Mary retired and moved to Wicklow. She wrote a book about her life. It was called Never Shake Hands with the Devil. This book was published in 1990. Her important papers and records are kept at NUI Galway. They tell the story of her amazing work.