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PHOTOS One of Limerick’s most loved cultural icons, Myles Breen, celebrates his 60th birthday
One of Limerick’s most loved cultural icons, Myles Breen, celebrates his 60th birthday. Pictured above is an image of Myles from his award-winning performance in his one-man show, Language Unbecoming a Lady
Limerick is celebrating one of its most loved cultural icons, Myles Breen as he celebrates his 60th birthday, a true son of the city who has devoted his life to the arts and theatre scene
Myles Breen, a true legend of the Limerick arts and theatre scene, has spent his life immersed in the arts and theatre scene, becoming one of the most recognisable faces in Limerick thanks to a career spanning almost four decades marked with outstanding achievements, performances, and productions.
Born and raised in Limerick, his journey into the arts began at a young age when his mother, Bridie, who celebrated her 103rd birthday this year, instilled a deep love for theatre, music, and dance in him, nurturing his creativity.
Although Myles initially pursued a degree in Commerce at University College Cork, his passion for the stage proved irresistible leading him to follow his calling into the world of acting after university.
Spending the early years of his career in Dublin, Myles honed his acting skills and made a name for himself in the national arts community with appearances in Fair City and Killinaskully among other Irish productions. Although experiencing some success in Dublin, it wasn’t until his return to Limerick after 13 years in Dublin that Myles marked an important chapter in his career.
In 2008, Myles co-founded Bottom Dog Theatre Company with Liam O’Brien, Mike Burke, and Mike Finn where he also worked with his great friend, the late John Murphy who sadly passed away this August, 2024.
The company quickly became a favourite in Limerick, filling the gap left by the Island Theatre Company and becoming an important part of the local cultural scene. The company earned national recognition as well as award nominations, including a nomination for the Irish Times Theatre Awards.
As a playwright, Myles has penned several acclaimed works, including A Wilde Fan, a homage to one of his idols, and his one-man show, Language Unbecoming a Lady, earned him the Best Actor award at the Origins First Irish Festival in New York in 2015.
Beyond the stage, Myles is known for his support for charities such as the Daughters of Charity and his work with Limerick Youth Theatre has allowed him to mentor and inspire new generations of performers, one of the highlights of the project is the highly anticipated The Creative Show highlighting his commitment to Limerick’s theatre scene.
His input to the local community and theatre scene has not gone unnoticed as in 2014 he was honoured with the Limerick Person of the Month award for recognition of his impact on the culture and community in Limerick.
As the Limerick legend celebrates his 60th birthday, we raise a glass to one of the city’s most prized and most loved characters, both onstage and in person. Happy Birthday Myles, Limerick loves you!
Pictures: Olena Oleksienko/ilovelimerick