Burke (or Bourke) is one of the most popular Irish names of Norman origin. The name was introduced to Ireland through the person (and presumably extended family) of William Fitzadelm de Burgo, who came to Ireland in 1169 with the Norman invasion forces. William was granted large estates of O'Connor land in Connacht but the family did not effectively gain possession of this … [Read more...] about Roots: The Burkes
Issues
The Great Famine Event
Ireland commemorates the Famine. Colin Lacey reports. Addressing a near-capacity crowd of almost 5,000 at the opening of The Great Famine Event in Millstreet, Co. Cork, Irish President Mary Robinson said that commemoration of the Famine was a moral act that should remember the victims but also use the lessons of 150 years ago to connect with issues that are relevant today. "I … [Read more...] about The Great Famine Event
McGuinness’ Doll House
Frank McGuinness, whose adaptation of Ibsen's A Doll's House won four Tony Awards, talks to Patricia O'Haire. It would be hard to miss Frank McGuinness lumbering into a room. Curly red-hair that looks as if it had never, in all its life, been introduced to a comb, a curly red beard to match, he's tall and somewhat overweight, but he gives off an air of nervous energy that both … [Read more...] about McGuinness’ Doll House
Steppin’ Out with Donald O’Connor
Tap-dancing great Donald O'Connor talks to Kevin Lewis. If living well is the best revenge, life must be sweet for dancer Donald O'Connor. In the Golden Age of Hollywood, O'Connor ranked only behind Gene Kelly and Fred Astaire because, with the exception of Singin' in the Rain (1952), he was not showcased in a dazzling series of prestigious musicals. Rather, at a critical … [Read more...] about Steppin’ Out with Donald O’Connor
The First Word: The Madness Of It All
"IRA, Killing 2 Policemen Cripples the Irish Peace Talks," says the front page headline in the New York Times story by Sarah Lyall, writing from London. Indeed, the recent shootings of the two RUC officers was front page news around the world, and brought outrage from all corners. But, heinous as the IRA killings are, the IRA alone is not responsible for crippling the peace … [Read more...] about The First Word: The Madness Of It All