New York's Irish Arts Center (IAC) will honor three time Academy Award winner Meryl Streep at their 25th Annual Spirit of Ireland Gala later this year.
Held November 15, the gala marks the completion of the IAC's third full year of operation in its new Irish Arts Center building. The IAC is known for highlighting the evolving arts and culture of Ireland and Irish America in an environment of warm Irish hospitality.
Streep, whose maternal great-great-grandmother Grace Strain left Horn Head, Co. Donegal for New York in 1864, had the following to say of the honor: “I am thrilled and delighted to join my Irish friends on the night, in support of this extraordinary center and its dedicated staff and associated writers, performers, and artisans. I know the craic will be good!!”
Frequently referred to as the best actress of her generation, Streep has received 21 Oscar nominations, 33 Golden Globe nominations, 20 SAG nominations, 15 BAFTA nominations, 7 Grammy nominations, 6 Emmy nominations, and a Tony nomination. She has won more than 200 competitive awards throughout her career.
Said Irish Arts Center Executive Director Aidan Connolly, “We are thrilled to have the opportunity to present Meryl Streep with our Spirit of Ireland Award at this year’s 25th Annual Gala. As an organization we strive to present transformative work that takes audiences on an emotional journey and illuminates our common humanity. Ms. Streep has done this throughout her astounding career, with uncommon grace and astounding longevity, and we cannot wait to pay tribute to her in New York on November 15th.”
The gala will also include a special musical performance from Irish recording artist Declan O’Rourke, who has enjoyed global acclaim and numerous residencies and performances at Irish Arts Center.
For more information, visit IrishArtsCenter.org.