Michael Twomey RIP: Legacy of laughs

THE death of actor Michael Twomey has robbed the nation of a theatrical legend and his family, friends and fans of one of the funniest, most engaging and talented comics that Ireland has ever produced.

For almost five decades, Michael and fellow funnyman Frank Duggan brought Leeside humour to the national stage with their alter egos, Cha and Miah.

It was a dumb and dumber comic invention that took off

on television in 1969 and gained a wide audience both on the airwaves and later on stage.

Cha and Miah evolved over the years to become the comic duo we came to know and love. Miah, played by Michael, was the pub philosopher and the know-all, while Cha, played

by Frank, was his gormless pal with occasional nuggets of wisdom.

Michael was an all-round talent, playing in six world premieres of John B Keane’s plays as well directing, scripting and producing his own material. He was also a generous

mentor to young actors. He will be sadly missed.