Irish World Academy is officially opened
Resource type: News
Limerick Leader | [ View Original Source (opens in new window) ]
By ANNE SHERIDAN
TAOISEACH Brian Cowen has officially opened the Irish World Academy of Music and Dance at the University of Limerick.
Located on the Clare side of the campus, the 5,000 square metre building was specifically designed to combine the elements of research, performance and teaching by leading French architect Daniel Cordier, who was appointed following an international design competition.
But the €20 million academy would not have opened only for the generosity of American billionaire Chuck Feeney, who has donated in excess of €100 million to the campus.
Professor Mícheál O’Súilleabháin, director of the academy, paid tribute to Mr Feeney, who was present at the opening with his wife Helga.
“Quite simply the building would not be here without them,” said Mr O’Súilleabháin.
Brian Cowen said: “The new Academy building not only offers a place to study, examine and develop the many strands of our musical heritage but it also lets us celebrate it, and the rich and varied traditions of other cultures.”
Once you cross the Living Bridge, the longest pedestrian bridge in the country, Mr Cowen said the eyes are immediately drawn to the gold domed roof of the academy.
Since its establishment in 1994 the Irish World Academy has seen over 1500 students graduate from its 10 postgraduate and three undergraduate programmes.
It now counts over 300 students from 25 countries.