TRIBUTES TO DOLORES ON HER FIRST ANNIVERSARY
It has been a year since Dolores’ untimely passing and the city of Limerick, like the whole world, is still struck in shock and sadness. Tributes by all kinds, from covers of her most iconic songs to special events and even plans of a permanent memorial have surfaced the media in these hard days.
Organised by Mark O’Connor, Ennis Road, Stefania Bardi and Limerick City and County Council, Piano for Dolores took place in Ormston House, 9-10 Patrick Street, Limerick, as a way to remember Dolores through her music in an intimate, familiar atmosphere where guests could gather to share their memories of her and The Cranberries.
There was a piano presiding the room, that people were invited to perform some of The Cranberries’ classic songs. The room was adorned with pictures and drawings of Dolores and The Cranberries, daffodils, lyrics and a signing book for guests. Videos of the Cranberries performing were projected on the walls, allowing guests to keep Dolores very present in such a special occasion.
Further plans:
There are also several ideas to honour Dolores with a permanent memorial in her home city of Limerick.
Eileen O’Riordan, Dolores’ mother, says she would like a life-sized statue, because statues are forever “It will be there when we are all gone”.
The metropolitan mayor Daniel Butler’s idea is to name the city’s new civic square at Project Opera in honour of Dolores. The public square at the heart of the site will be used as a civic space outside the city’s new library, providing a space for gigs and other artistic events. With the University of Limerick (UL) also expected to locate its city centre campus there, it will become a hub for young people.
With talks set to commence on how to recognise Dolores in the most appropriate manner, Cllr Butler is also suggesting an engraved replica of the iconic sofa used on the The Cranberries’ album covers in the new square, which will be the beating heart of the city’s newest district.
