Margaret Burke Sheridan A Celebration in Words and Music at The Shelbourne

A night to celebrate the life and artistry of Ireland’s greatest opera singer, in the hotel that was her final stage.

In a year marking both The Shelbourne’s 200th anniversary and the centenary of legendary composer Puccini’s death, The Shelbourne hosts a special concert on Tuesday, 26 November, celebrating Ireland’s most famous opera singer, Margaret Burke Sheridan. The event will pay tribute to her remarkable career and her unique connection to both Puccini and The Shelbourne itself.

The concert, in The Shelbourne’s historic ballroom, will feature a stellar line-up of talent, including sopranos Sandra Oman and Deirdre Higgins, tenor Paul Kelly, and accompanist Siobhan Kilkelly. The evening will be narrated by acclaimed author Anne Chambers, biographer of Margaret Burke Sheridan, providing fascinating insights into the life and legacy of the singer known as “Puccini’s favourite butterfly.” Concert-goers will also have the rare opportunity to view some of Margaret Burke Sheridan’s personal operatic memorabilia.

The Shelbourne connection

In her later years, after retiring from the stage, Margaret Burke Sheridan made The Shelbourne her home. Known for her mischievous wit and captivating stories, she would hold court in the Lord Mayor’s Lounge, delighting guests with tales of her career. During her battle with breast cancer, she spent her final months in comfort at The Shelbourne, thanks to the generosity of a wealthy admirer.

In tribute to her legacy, The Shelbourne is also naming a suite in her honour, complete with memorabilia, including her letters, programmes, a portrait, and even a gramophone with some of her original recordings. The evening will not only be a celebration of music and history but also a fundraiser for a worthy cause, with proceeds going to Arc Cancer Support, an organisation dedicated to supporting cancer patients and their families across Ireland.

Date: Tuesday, 26 November

Time: 7:30 pm

Venue: The Ballroom, The Shelbourne Hotel

Tickets: €30

Proceeds in aid of: Arc Cancer Support

Host or Publisher The Shelbourne