Tributes paid to ‘wonderful’ opera singer

Cork is mourning the loss of a well-known opera singer who has been described as a “talented” and “beautiful person”.

Joe Corbett, originally from Churchfield, passed away in London last week after an illness.

The baritone singer studied in the Cork School of Music and was a familiar face at venues like Cork Opera House, The Everyman, and City Hall.

Since news of his passing, tributes have poured in from those that knew him and worked with him.

Eibhlín Gleeson, CEO of Cork Opera House, said: “We at Cork Opera House are deeply saddened by Joe’s loss. He was a wonderful artist, a beautiful person, and a valued and beloved member of our Cork Opera House family.

“Our thoughts are with his family and his many, many friends in music, both in Cork and beyond, who we know are devastated by his loss. May he rest in peace,” she also said.

Staff at The Everyman also paid tribute: “Joe has left an indelible mark on both The Everyman and the artistic landscape of Cork, most recently in the role of Fergus in The Everyman co-production of ‘The Morrigan’ with Cork Opera House, The Everyman tour of ‘The Nightingale and The Rose’, and with his close friends Majella Cullagh and Mary Hegarty, in ‘Side By Side by Sondheim’.

“His interpretation of these roles was steeped in an understanding of the human condition – love, loss, joy, and vulnerability. He will be sadly missed by all of his friends and colleagues here at The Everyman,” they added.

Fianna Fáil Cllr Tony Fitzgerald, who would have known him locally, said: “I’m sorry to hear of the passing of Joe Corbett. My deepest sympathies to his family and musical friends.

“Joe was a talented opera singer who never forgot his routes and regularly returned to Cork to perform at Cork Opera House and many local events at St Vincent's H&F Club. God rest his soul.”

Dublin based theatre company Pan Pan also shared a message: “Pan Pan deeply regrets the passing of Joe Corbett, opera singer, actor, and dear friend.

“Joe performed with Pan Pan in ‘Deflowerfucked’ (2001) and with ‘Oedipus Loves You’ in Quebec (2007). Joe was an exceptional performer and person, he will be deeply missed by everyone who was lucky enough to know him. We express our sincere condolences to his family and all who loved him.”

Mr Corbett’s funeral will be held in Cork. Arrangements to be made later.