AHI remembers Terry O’Leary (1960-2024)
Terry (far right) with Adrian Jackson, Cecilia Boal (centre) and delegates from Milkcrate Theatre, Sydney at the Rio Cultural Olympiad in 2016
In memory of Terry O’Leary by Arts & Homelessness International
We learned of Terry’s death recently from Cardboard Citizens where she had a long and successful career as a senior member of staff and one of the top Forum Theatre ‘jokers’ in the world. AHI worked with her during the Rio 2016 Cultural Olympiad where she was part of an international delegation sharing work with other arts/homelessness project from around the world. She was also part of the 1st International Arts and Homelessness Summit and Festival in Manchester in 2018. We have been sharing memories of her and she has had a profound impact on many of us at AHI, individually and collectively:
“Her hard work, consistency, resilience, humour, level headedness and heart have impacted the team and influenced how we approach work as individuals.”
“This work was Terry’s vocation or calling after having other successful careers in catering and also a Hatton Garden jeweller and caring for her brother. She has been an inspiration to everyone she engaged with, truly treating people she met with respect and dignity and giving her time and compassion where it was most needed.“
“This news has really hit me, and I can’t really get my head around it. I first met Terry in Hammersmith with Michael Chandler as I was asked to advise and get some participants for a veterans’ project they did, way back. She blew me away because she had lived experience and was flying in the sector. It inspired me. We hit it off straight away. I loved her chilled-out approach and manner to everything. I feel that a big part of the homeless arts community has left the building and has shaken the foundations.”
“Heartbreaking news, I first met her at Streetwise, a legend and seeing people like Terry doing well gave me hope that I could have a future. I thought Terry was outstanding as a joker.”
“This is such sad news. Terry was a giant of the sector – funny, mischievous and brilliant on stage; making everyone feel at ease – actors and audience. A Forum Theatre pioneer. Pushing, gently but firmly for lived experience being represented. A joyous disruptor. We spent the happiest time with her in Rio during the Cultural Olympiad in 2016. Broad smile, amazing sense of humour, she wore her considerable talents lightly and modestly. She was the best company – if there was anyone going on a night out in Rio, she was there – and the best of people.”
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