Emma O'KANE

My heartfelt condolences to Emma's family and friends. I had the privilege of working with and getting to know Emma and will always remember her warmth, generosity and fearlessness as an artist. Lots of love Emma - you will be missed xxx

Dear Joy, Nick and Lydia, I am so very, very sad to hear of Emma's passing, so sad, too young, too early.., so unfair. There was no one like Emma, No one. She embodied beauty, strength, love and a receptiveness to life and love in every way that was an inspiration and our great pleasure to know. I loved her very deep insight to every moment. And her ever-lasting humour. I am thinking of all 3 of you –I was working with Emma when Sean Jr tragically passed--I too had lost my sister tragically. My heart goes out to you now. It is so hard to lose the ones you love..... I know Emma will be there for you, around you, guiding you like a light in the dark. For that’s Emma. Stay close. Deepest condolences.

Dear Joy and family, it was with much shock and sadness we heard of the passing of your beautiful daughter Emma be assured you are all very much in our thoughts and prayers at this very difficult time, may Emma's gentle soul R.I.P

To Joy Nicki + Lydia....My deepest sympathies to you all on the passing of Emma. So sad to hear of such news. What a pleasure to have met such a bright ray of sunshine. She brought to so many of our lives. Her love for everyone was endless.
RIP Emma
Willie Sara + Alanna Warren

Dear Joy, Nick, Lydia, extended family & friends,

You are all in my thoughts and prayers. I am so sorry to hear about the loss of Emma. She was a beautiful human being. The few times I did spend with her in San Diego, she always lit up the room. She was such a lovely woman.

Wishing you peace to bring you comfort, strength & courage to face the days ahead and love, hugs and fond memories to warm your heart.

Sending love and my deepest condolences. RIP Emma.

I had the privilege of her joyful company when I was working in The Lir for the production of The Farm. What a Beautiful young woman. Sarah & My self are heart broken.

Sending my deepest sympathies to the family & friends of the lovely Emma. We were in the same class in Sion Hill and I remember the day in the library when we were told that Emma was going to Russia to study ballet.

Emma was amazing to have achieved so much in her short life’ and that she lived out her dream by doing what she was so passionate about. I will always remember your smile Emma and that unforgettable laugh of yours. May you rest n peace.

Dear Joy, Lydia & Nick, I have so many wonderful memories of Emma, from our early days in ballet with Miss Cole all the way through the years I was lucky to be able to call Emma my friend and what a friend she was! So much fun, an incredible listener and wise as an owl not to mention her talent!!! I miss Emma terribly and am so sorry for your heartache and loss. Emma was an extraordinary and beautiful human, she radiated love and I will never forget her. Her light will continue to shine. Love and support to you all. xxCiara

My deepest sympathy, Joy, on the death of your beloved daughter, Emma. Little one can say in the face of such a dreadful loss. May she rest in peace.

Beautiful Emma, I am so grateful to have known you and had your friendship for so many years. Thank you for your kindness, positivity, support and amazing sense of humour. You saw the best in everyone, you made the best of every situation and you gave me the best laughs I ever had. You were so brave, so talented and yet so beautifully humble. I will miss you in so many ways, but my memories of you will never fade. My deepest sympathies to Joy, Nick and Lidia, my thoughts are with you all.

Dear Joy, Lydia and Nick, I am so sorry for your heartache and loss. Emma was an extraordinary and beautiful human, she radiated love and I will never forget her. Her light shines on.

There are no words when someone goes before their time and you have to say goodbye to them. Our deepest sympathies to all of Emma’s family and friends.

May Emma Rest in Peace.

My deepest sympathy to Emma’s family and friends. Such a kind and warm person with enormous talent. RIP beautiful soul.

I wish to send my sincerest sympathy and condolences to Emma's family and friends. I'll never forget her incredible presence on stage and in the dance studio. She will be deeply missed by so many.

An incredible performer and lovely person. I've been reflecting on some lovely memories of knowing Emma and watching her perform. I was so shocked and saddened to hear she had left us early. My sincere condolences to all her friends and family.

Our deepest condolences to Emma’s family and friends. Emma was a truly beautiful person may she RIP

Dear Joy, Lydia and Nick and of Emma's closest friends,
You are all in my thoughts and prayers at this time. Emma is in my prayers too and I trust that she has been enfolded in the arms of God and reunited with those who have gone to rest ahead of her.
In the words of William Penn,
"We seem to give them back to Thee, O God, who gavest them to us. Yet, as thou didst not lose them in giving, so do we not lose them by their return. Not as the world giveth, givest Thou, O Lover of Souls. What Thou givest, Thou takest not away. For what is Thine is ours also if we are Thine. And life is eternal and love is immortal, and death is only an horizon, and an horizon is nothing save the limit of our sight. Lift us up, strong Son of God, that we may see further; cleanse our eyes that we may know ourselves to be nearer to our loved ones who art with Thee. And while Thou dost prepare a place for us, prepare us also for that happy place, that where Thou art we may be also for evermore."

Deepest condolences to Emma's family and friends. What an enormous and unfathomable loss. Everyone at Mermaid was so pleased to be working with Emma this year and it's so difficult to imagine Irish dance and theatre without her in it, such was scale of her contribution as a person and as an artist.

I extend my deepest sympathies to Emma's family on your sad loss. The huge tributes that have already been expressed are a wonderful testament to the way she touched so many lives. She radiated such grace and warmth. I remember Emma very fondly from the time she led a group of us in the over 50s age bracket in a tea dance in a tent in Merrion Square several years ago. It was a privilege and an honour to have known her and experienced the joy she brought with her amazing gift. Her musical choices and encouraging manner were inspiring. May she Rest in Peace.

Deepest sympathy from Una and her grandson Luke. We had such a privilege to be part of her generation class. Condolences to her family. You will all be remembered in our prayers. - Una.

Rest in peace dear Emma. Her star shined so bright and she brought so much fun and many laughs to our every encounter. She will be deeply missed forever, and always remembered so fondly for her warmth, beautiful character and supreme talent. We will never forget her and always treasure the moments we shared. She was larger than life and her influence will live on in the spirit of her friends, colleagues and everyone whom had the privilege to know her. Sincerest condolences to her friends and family. Dance on beautiful girl! Rest in Peace. XX

I have the fondest memories of laughter and dancefoor hijinks with Emma from many moons ago. She was an exquisite performer and creator, endlessly watchable, always bringng something unique to light. My thoughts are with all her loved ones.

Emma was an extraordinary person and an extraordinary talent, beloved by everyone. All my thoughts are with her loved ones. She is a huge loss to so many people.

Emma, you were a true beauty inside and out. It was a gift to have known you and worked with you. You lit up the stage and everyone around you. I will always remember your warmth, passion, kindness and that twinkle in your eyes. May you now rest in peace. My deepest sympathies to all of Emma's family and loved ones at this difficult time. x

To Emma’s Family.
My deepest condolences on the loss of your beautiful, talented, calm, always smiling and laughing, Emma.
I know I, and her many friends, feel a huge a loss. I hope everyone's thoughts and prayers for Emma may give you comfort and fond memories at this time. Emma's company and friendship, will always be a gift to me, and us all.

To Emma’s Family.
My deepest condolences on the loss of your beautiful, talented, calm, always smiling and laughing, Emma.
I know I, and her many friends, feel a huge a loss. I hope everyone's thoughts and prayers for Emma may give you comfort and fond memories at this time. Emma's company and friendship, will always be a gift to me, and us all.

I am so grateful to have known you, Emma, and for all your joy, beauty, creativity and strength. You will be so very missed by all those who were lucky enough to have had you in their lives. You're still dancing in our hearts. My deepest sympathy to your family and friends.

"Keep passing the open windows."

The phrase which began my friendship with Emma, when we were roomies in Perm. We became very close and I loved her dearly. The laughs we had, the adventures, how hard we worked. Emma was a fantastic person, full of grace, thoughtful, a sense of humour that I know brought light and laughter to all around her. And she was kind. I can't believe she has been taken so young, with her life ahead of her. We are all the better for having had her in our lives, and I hope the warmth and memories that people have expressed since she died bring Joy, Lydia, Nick and her dear friends some comfort. Remembered always xx

Sending my deepest sympathies to Emma's family and close friends. I was lucky to work with Emma over the years and always felt I was in the presence of greatness. She was fearless but unassuming and humble as well, not to mention great craic. So much craic. I'll miss her big smile and infectious laugh. I hope you can feel the love we had for Emma shine upon you and that it gives you some strength and comfort. Rest in peace beautiful Emma

Sending my deepest sympathies to Emma's family and to all her many friends and colleagues. Emma mentored and inspired me as a young dancer many years ago. She was generous, kind and throughtful and great fun. She lit up every stage and studio and she was the most beautiful dancer. We will miss you in so many ways Emma. May your beautiful soul rest in peace. xxx

Bless you dear Emma x

I very much enjoyed Emma's work on 'Before', 'The Dead' and likely others. Best wishes to her friends and family at this time.

Such sad, unexpected news. A big loss to us all. Fondly remembered.

Emma, you were such a gift to all who knew you and to those of us who were so inspired by you in ballet class. Thank you for your ever shining light, humour, grace and strength.

‘In the end there is one dance you’ll do alone’ (Jackson Browne). Beautiful Emma, you will be so missed. Deepest sympathy to your family and all your friends. ‘I know you’d rather we were dancing our sorrow away.’

To Joy, Lydia and Nick,
My deepest condolences on the loss of Emma, one of the most empathetic and lovely people I have ever met. I remember making friends with her in Junior Infants like it was yesterday. I wish you all strength and love for the time ahead.

My heartfelt and deepest condolences to all Emma's family and friends. She was a leading light in the dance community, loved and respected by all who knew her. She touched the hearts and souls of all who experienced her art. Rest in peace.

I remember Emma with love. She was a beautiful dancer with a great heart and cheekiness. I send my love to her family and friends at this difficult time. I will never forget her.

My deepest condolences to Emma's family and friends. Emma was such a beautiful person and dancer. I feel very privileged to known her in some small way over the years. I will always keep her in my heart and be inspired by her beautiful spirit and dancing. RIP dear Emma.

Sending deepest sympathies to Emma's family and friends. A bright soul who had a profound effect on all of those lucky enough to have met her. Am forever grateful for the moments we shared. She was a joy. Rest In Peace, beautiful lady. x

Emma was fun, talented and above all, kind. She will be hugely missed. Condolences to her family at this sad, sad time.

Beautiful Emma, you are a shining light of inspiration to me and so many.
Thank you for your dance, your authenticity, your joy, friendly smile and warm heart. Thank you for sharing your gifts with the world and inspiring us all with the presence and magic of your dance- this will forever warm and soothe our hearts.
Love and light to your soul Emma and all your loving family and friends.

Rest in peace Emma. Dance in Ireland will never be the same. I was so excited to work with Emma and get to know her further. May proper celebrations of her life be had very soon.

Dear Joy and Family
Thinking of you all and wishing you moments of peace and comfort as you remember the wonderful Emma. We are heartbroken for your loss, sharing in your sadness. Emma will always be in our hearts.
Dance in Heaven sweet Emma

Louise and family

Sending all my love and my deepest condolences to Emma's family and friends at this sad time.
She was incredible. A true inspiration. May she Rest in Peace x

Our deepest condolences to Emma’s family and friends. She was such a beautiful woman. Rest In Peace Emma

I'm so saddened to hear of Emma's passing. I had the pleasure of studying ballet with her in Russia. I have such fond memories of her. She was so funny, strong, and independent. Her positive attitude and brilliant sense of humour were infectious. My deepest sympathies to all her families and friends.

Emma's warmth, generosity, encouragement, talent and light will remain in the hearts and minds of all who were lucky enough to come into her presence. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a h-anam dílis.

My deepest sympathies to all of Emma's family, friends, and colleagues in the creative community. She was an exceptional talent with a beautiful soul that shone through her work; the memory of which will never fade.

My deepest condolences to Emma's family and friends.

It was great pleasure to have met Emma and we've had some brilliant conversation. Emma was a kind and generous person. I'll always remember joyous laugh!

Shine on, Emma
Dance in Peace

I'm sending love and condolences to Emma's family and friends. She was the most extraordinary artist, an inspiring collaborator and a great presence in every room. She wore her talent so lightly that she made everyone around her feel equal to the work. We will miss her dearly.

My deepest condolences to Emma's family and all who loved her. She was truly exceptional and will be fiercely missed.

Sending deepest condolences to you Joy, Lydia, Nick and all Emma’s friends and family.

Remembering Emma’s warmth and laughter, her fabulous sense of fun, her kindness and her inspiring talent and creativity which she put to such amazing use.

Sending you all love, rest in peace Emma x

Emma was the best of the best, a huge inspiration to all in the dance community. She will be sorely missed. Deepest condolences to her friends and family x

Emma's endless warmth and infectious joy will be so, so sorely missed. Dance on in the stars Emma x

It's hard to believe we won't meet the live wire of Emma's love, lightness, grace and warmth again. We feel privileged and thankful to have known her, and won't ever forget her beautiful face, dance and infectious laugh. She'll be so missed. A person as special as Emma will never truly be gone, she'll continue to shine.
Our deepest sympathies to you Joy, Nick and Lydia.

I had the delight of sharing in Emma's joy in the studio, in rehearsals and on stage. She was both a lady and a messer, a beautiful dancer and a sincere soul. I'm thankful to have met her and hope she is dancing now, without pain and suffering. My sincerest condolences to her family and friends at this very sad time. Praying for your peace and comfort. Oran x

My sincere condolences to all Emma's friends and family. I was fortunate enough to have worked with Emma a few times over many years and she was the warmest of souls who's light shone through her work.
She will be deeply missed for the art she shared with the world and the friendship she showed all who knew her.

I offer my deepest condolences to Emma's family.
To me, Emma was a beacon of strength, power, joy, energy, life and love and it was such a privilege to have known her as a friend and colleague.
Once you came within Emma's orbit she drew and pulled you in. Her loss is keenly felt and I can only imagine your heartache.
I hope that the love and light she emanated and enveloped us all in is coming back to you now many times over and that you find solace today, and throughout this hard time, in the love we all felt for her.

Thinking of Emma's family, friends and colleagues at this time of loss. It is hard to imagine a light as bright as Emma's no longer lighting up our stages. Her warmth, kindness and great capacity for fun will long be remembered. Sending love to all who knew and loved her.