AN ACTOR AND playwright with motor neurone disease (MND) who won a prestigious drama award for his portrayal of Richard III at the Lyric Theatre in Belfast has died at the age of 35.

Michael Patrick, also known as Michael Campbell, was diagnosed with MND in 2022. His adaptation of Richard III scooped him the Judges’ Award at the Stage Awards in London’s Royal Opera House last year.

At the time the native of Belfast told BBC news that he and his writer partner Oisin Kearney had adapted the Shakespeare’s play with his own condition in mind.

“In Shakespeare’s version Richard III is deformed from birth. They found his skeleton in a car park and it looked like he had scoliosis.

“We changed it so that at the start of the play Richard gets news that he’s got a terminal illness, something like MND that’s going to get worse.”

His wife Naomi paid tribute to her “titan of a ginger haired man” whilst announcing his death on social media.

“Last night, Mick sadly passed away in the Northern Ireland Hospice,” she wrote.

“He was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease in February 2022. He was admitted 10 days ago and was cared for by the incredible team there. He passed peacefully surrounded by family and friends.

“Words can’t describe how broken-hearted we are.”

She added that Mick “was an inspiration to everyone who was privileged enough to come into contact with him”.

“He lived a life as full as any human can live. Joy, abundance of spirit, infectious laughter.”

“We are so grateful for every person who supported us through the last few years.”

Jimmy Fay, Executive Producer of the Lyric Theatre in Belfast, said that he was “devastated” to learn about the death of his esteemed colleague.

“Michael Patrick’s portrayal of Richard III in a now legendary production was one of the greatest performances ever on the Lyric stage. In its eloquence, wit and haunting bravery, he was inspirational,” Fay said.

“Michael has been part of the Lyric family for many years, from performing his first one-man show, I, Banquo, to his work on Blackout with our Creative Learning department, and later with the incredible The Tragedy of Richard III.”

“He used the slings and arrows of the outrageous fortune thrown at him and turned them into visceral and vibrant art.”

Michael Patrick was awarded the Spirit of Northern Ireland award last year in recognition of his continued work and advocacy following his diagnosis.

His funeral will take place on Monday at 11am at the Immaculate Heart of Mary Church in Carryduff, Co Down.