Judy Collins to receive Eugene O'Neill Lifetime Achievement Award

Folksinger and activist Judy Collins has been selected for the Eugene O'Neill Lifetime Achievement Award by the Irish American Writers and Artists, Inc (IAW&A).

Organization co-founder and president T.J. English said "Few American artists have sustained a career in popular music that is as exceptional and iconic as Judy Collins. Beginning in the early 1960s, with her role in the emergence of the folk music phenomenon, and through the rock 'n roll explosion and cultural upheavals of the late-60s and early-70s, Judy's pristine voice and beautiful songs gave clarity and hope to an entire generation. She has maintained that same level of artistry ever since."

Upon being informed of her selection for the award, Collins said, "I am thrilled and honored to be given this wonderful award named after the great Eugene O'Neill. I have always believed that, in my heart, I am first and foremost a storyteller descended from a long line of Irish storytellers and balladeers. It is a great tribute to be mentioned alongside O'Neill; I will gladly be there to accept the award."

Malachy McCourt, actor, author, IAW&A co-director, and a personal friend of Collins' since the late-1960s, said, "Judy sings like an angel but has the strength of an iron worker. Her career has been like a beacon of light, even though – as befalls us all over a full life – she has known tragedy and despair."

This is the fourth Eugene O'Neill Lifetime Achievement Award to be given with the previous recipients being writer William Kennedy, actor Brian Dennehy and Charlotte Moore and Ciarán O'Reilly who founded the Irish Repertory Theatre in New York.

The award will be presented on October 15.

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