Niall Tóibín honoured - Theatre legend makes his mark

Possibly, his handprints should have been cast in gold rather than the bronze in which the Gaiety Theatre last evening honoured Niall Tóibín.

It was apposite that in Cork’s year as European Capital of Culture, the Corkman was honoured for his incredible contribution to the theatre.

He joins other much loved figures of Irish theatre, like Maureen Potter, John B Keane and Anna Manahan whose handprints also have been cast in bronze and placed on display in the plaza in front of the theatre.

It is an emblem of recognition sparingly made by the Gaiety Theatre and as such it is the highest acclaim it can bestow.

Niall Tóibín began his distinguished career at the Abbey Theatre, having left the Radio Éireann Players, and subsequently enthralled audiences from London to Broadway with his special performances.

An outstanding actor, he is synonymous with Brendan Behan, having captivated worldwide audiences with his enduring characterisation of the Irish playwright.

But Niall Toibín’s repertoire of versatile characters is endless in both comedy and drama, as television and cinema audiences will attest.

The Corkman has appeared in almost 40 films and in a succession of popular television series.

Throughout a remarkable career he has been the recipient of many awards, but yesterday’s tribute from the Gaiety Theatre bestows on Niall Tóibín a rare honour to a rare man of such talent.