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14 Nov 2025
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14 Nov 2025
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On Monday last, Clonmel lost one of its most distinguished daughters, Monica del Bigio, née Cullen, from Albert Street in Clonmel.
In a tribute paid to her by Clonmel-based TD Seamus Healy, he described Monica as "An exceptional talent, a soprano of the highest rank who passed away in Italy. On behalf of the people of Clonmel and on my own behalf, I extend sympathies to Monica's family, her daughter Paola, son Patrick, extended family, relations and friends both here in Ireland and in Italy.
"Monica made her operatic debut with St. Mary's Choral Society in 1953, taking the leading role of Serpolette in a production of The Bells of Corneville. She trained professionally with the Abbey Theatre, continued her vocal studies in New York and completed her training in Italy, where she won numerous awards.
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"Throughout a very successful career, she performed in all major opera houses in Europe but she never lost touch with her home town of Clonmel and her beloved St. Mary's Choral Society. She performed professionally with the society and officially opened the South Tipperary Arts Centre in Clonmel. Monica was a wonderful ambassador for Clonmel, Tipperary and Ireland. Ar dheis lámh Dé go raibh a hanam uasal," concluded Deputy Healy.
The South Tipperary Arts Centre has also paid a heartfelt tribute to Monica on her passing, posting a photo from when she opened the centre in 1996.
"It is with a heavy heart that we learn today of the passing of Monica Cullen del Bigio.
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"A much loved opera singer and Clonmel native, this photo, taken from the front page of The Nationalist newspaper on April 27, 1996, shows Monica opening the arts centre. As we celebrate the 30th anniversary of STAC next year, Monica's passing is all the more poignant.
"Our thoughts are with Monica's family at this time. May her soul rest in peace," the centre said.
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