Patrick Corrigan in his office at the centre in 1998.
Camera IconPatrick Corrigan in his office at the centre in 1998. Credit: Supplied/Supplied

Former Mandurah Performing Arts Centre manager dies in Sydney

Jill BurgessMandurah Coastal Times

FORMER Mandurah Performing Arts Centre general manager Patrick Corrigan passed away in Sydney on Friday after a long battle with cancer.

Mr Corrigan came to Mandurah with his family in late 1998 as general manager of the one-year-old centre.

“Patrick instantly fell in love with Mandurah and his energy, enthusiasm, strong emphasis on networking and commitment to bringing and producing quality shows at MPAC were indicative of his approach to his job,’’ recalls Arts Minister and Mandurah MLA David Templeman,

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“He loved people, encouraged many young performers to explore their talents in the performing arts and hosted fantastic parties,’’ he said.

“I remember vividly one famous party he hosted at his home in Halls Head.

“Denis Waterman (Minder) was in town with the late Jon English for an English farce at the centre.

‘The two belted out tunes in the lounge room to an audience of more than 100 people.

“The neighbours probably didn’t appreciate the noise but it was a hoot and still remembered fondly by those lucky enough to be there.’’;

Mr Corrigan particularly supported the development of the centre’s in house productions, overseen by the late Lesley Couzens.

“He was an ideas man and always willing to take a risk to see what could be achieved with talented people,’’ Mr Templeman said.

“He was an unswerving advocate for the importance of the arts in our lives.’’

When Mr Corrigan moved back to Sydney after nearly five years at the centre, the two kept in regular contact.

“Patrick left a great legacy at MPAC and a memorable mark in Mandurah,’’ he said.

Since returning to Sydney, Mr Corrigan had held a number of positions including general manager of the City of Gosford Entertainment Centre, Sydney State Theatre, Sydney Aerial Theatre and the St Ives Precinct.