[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 110 (Thursday, June 26, 2025)]
[House]
[Pages H2973-H2974]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        HONORING VINCENT O'NEILL

  (Mr. Kennedy of New York was recognized to address the House for 5 
minutes.)
  Mr. KENNEDY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life 
and legacy of Vincent O'Neill, a brilliant artist, beloved teacher, 
dear friend, and cultural giant who transformed the landscape of 
theater in western New York.
  Born in Dublin, Ireland, Vincent carried a deep love for his Irish 
roots that he shared with western New York and the world. Vincent 
trained at University College Dublin, Trinity College, the Abbey School 
of Acting, and under the legendary Marcel Marceau in Paris as a mime.
  As a member of the prestigious Abbey Theater, he toured the globe

[[Page H2974]]

acting and directing. His one-man show, ``Joyicity,'' inspired by the 
works of James Joyce, earned international acclaim. He was invited by 
both the President and Prime Minister of Ireland to perform the piece, 
a powerful testament to his talent.
  Vincent first came to Buffalo in 1985 with his brother, Chris, to 
perform Samuel Beckett's ``Waiting for Godot'' in a hotel dining room 
in Cheektowaga, instantly winning over local critics and audiences.
  That performance sparked something greater in Vincent, and in 1989, 
he returned to Buffalo permanently. Within a year, he cofounded the 
Irish Classical Theatre Company alongside his late brother, Chris, 
Josephine Hogan, and Dr. James Warde.

  What began as a makeshift stage grew into one of Buffalo's most 
cherished institutions. For over 30 years as artistic director, Vincent 
brought his passion, creativity, and vision to the Irish Classical 
Theatre, directing 30 productions, appearing in 67 more, and setting 
the standard for excellence in local theater.
  From The Andrews Theatre to Shea's 710, Vincent proved that Buffalo's 
theater scene could rival any in the world.
  ``Waiting for Godot'' remained a through line in his life. It was the 
first show the Irish Classical Theatre staged in its new home, the play 
that reopened the theater after the COVID-19 pandemic, and also his 
final role on that stage.
  Vincent was more than a performer. He was a mentor, teacher, and 
leader. At the University of Buffalo, where he served as chair and 
director of theater performance, he shaped generations of actors, 
instilling in them discipline, empathy, and love for the craft. He 
collaborated with the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra, led Irish 
cultural celebrations, appeared in local films, and brought people 
together through art.
  Vincent's contributions were recognized by peers and the community 
alike. He received Artie Awards for acting, directing, and lifetime 
achievement, along with honors like the Buffalo News Outstanding 
Citizen Award, Irish Echo Community Champion, and Irishman of the Year. 
Just 3 years ago, he was honored with a permanent star in the Buffalo 
Theater District's Plaza of Stars.
  Together with his brother, Chris, the O'Neill name became synonymous 
with artistic excellence in Buffalo, a legacy now permanently etched 
into the city with the naming of The Brothers O'Neill Way on Main 
Street in the Buffalo Theater District.
  Last week, Vincent O'Neill left us at the age of 75 after a battle 
with cancer. To lose Vincent is to lose a piece of Buffalo's artistic 
soul. Vincent was one of a kind: a consummate artist, a devoted 
teacher, a pillar of our arts community, and, above all, a man of 
vision, integrity, and warmth.
  I thank his beloved wife, Teja; his children, Laura Emily, and Jamie; 
their mother, Josephine Hogan; and his sister, Margaret, for sharing 
Vincent with us. His many friends, colleagues, and all whose lives he 
touched will honor the legacy he leaves behind. He will be missed 
beyond measure.
  I find comfort in knowing that Vincent's spirit will remain with us 
in every performance at the Irish Classical Theatre, in every student 
who carries his lessons forward, and in every audience moved by the 
power of a great story, especially when told with the heart, soul, and 
humor of an Irishman.
  May Vincent O'Neill rest in peace.
  ``Eternal peace''; ``Suaimhneas siorai.''

                          ____________________