Homecoming for Limerick actor Richard Harris with opening of exhibition with never-before-seen items

THE first ever public exhibition of never-before-seen items drawn from a late actor’s own collection will go on display at the Hunt Museum in the city centre later this summer.

From ‘Dickie to Richard’ – Richard Harris: Role of a Lifetime, explores the life and career of Richard Harris and includes personal letters and annotated scripts to rare photographs, poetry, recordings, and sporting memorabilia.

A collaboration between the Harris Family, the Hunt Museum and University College Cork (UCC), the exhibition draws on the rich treasures of the Harris Archive, donated by the actor’s family to UCC in 2022. It opens on July 4 and runs until November 16 at the Hunt Museum in Limerick city, the iconic actor’s birthplace.

Damien, Jared and Jamie Harris, speaking on behalf of the family, said: “Richard was a prolific writer and kept everything: Poems. Short stories. Scripts. Whether finished or works in progress.

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This exhibition gives people a sense of the depth and humour behind the public image. It means a lot to us to see it begin here, in Limerick.”

Barry Monahan, Department of Film & Screen Media, University College Cork, said: “We are delighted that this exhibition is opening its doors in Limerick’s Hunt Museum. It offers the public – fans of Richard, of the arts, and of Irish culture – a wonderful glimpse into the mind and creative energy of this impressive and enigmatic Irishman, and it sheds light on the times and places in which he lived and worked.

“The exhibition comprises carefully selected artefacts from the larger archive, on which our UCC’s Special Collections and Archives team has been working. We are honoured that this magnificent donation is now housed, protected, preserved, and researched at University College Cork.”

An exciting series of public talks, film screenings, and events will accompany the show throughout its run with full details to be announced in the coming weeks.

“This exhibition is a homecoming for Richard,” added Teresa Crowley, CEO, Hunt Museum. “It not only honours his extraordinary career but celebrates his Limerick, Munster, and Irish roots, offering the public a unique opportunity to explore his artistic and sporting world in the city where his journey began.”

Spanning Richard’s extraordinary career, the exhibition highlights key moments such as his breakthrough performance in This Sporting Life, his iconic roles in Camelot, The Field, Gladiator, and Harry Potter, as well as his adventures as a singer, poet, and director.

It also explores his complex personal life, his passion for rugby and the seaside town of Kilkee. Exhibition highlights include the iconic crown from Camelot, his Golden Globe awards, and cherished rugby jersey.

Tickets are now available from the Hunt Museum, costing €12.50 for Adults. Children under 16 go free.