Animation Dingle has announced producer Michael Algar as the recipient of this year's prestigious Murakami Award, sponsored by Brown Bag Films.
Animation producer Michael Algar will be honoured at the Animation Dingle Festival for his contributions to the world of animation.
The Murakami Award, named after Japanese animator Jimmy Teru Murakami (村上輝明 ) (1933-2014) a founding father of Irish animation, recognises individuals who have demonstrated unparalleled innovation, vision, and impact in the field of animation. Murakami was a key figure in the establishment of the thriving Irish animation industry that we know today.
The Murakami award ceremony, set to take place during the festival, will serve as a tribute to Algar's career and legacy.
Algar has worked for over fifty years in the film industry. He was appointed first Chief Executive of the Irish Film Board (Screen Ireland) in 1982. In that capacity, he supervised the financing of selected feature and documentary films by Irish filmmakers. He has also represented Ireland on committees in the European Union and the Council of Europe concerning the development and improvement of film industries in Europe, leading to the establishment of Eurimages. Credits include the features Christmas Carol and Joseph, King of Dreams as well as series The Storykeepers, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Captain Star, Budgie the Little Helicopter, The Mad Cows, and many other specials and series. His most recent special was Deposits and most recent series was MyaGo.
"We are thrilled that Michael Algar has been honoured with the Murakami Award in Dingle," said Ethna Murakami. "For Jimmy, Dingle wasn't just a destination; it was a sanctuary, a place where he found a true sense of home and belonging. Michael's recognition with this award is not just a testament to his talent, but also to his close bond with our family. He is not just a recipient of this award; he is a cherished family friend, and this recognition is all the more meaningful and couldn't be more well-deserved."
Speaking about the award, Michael Algar said: “It's a great honour for me to receive this award, named for my great friend and colleague Jimmy Murakami who inspired the development of the Irish animation industry".
Speaking on the announcement today, Cathal Gaffney, Managing Director, Brown Bag Films, sponsors of the award added: “The Murakami Award is a prestigious lifetime achievement award in the field of Irish Animation, and Michael Algar is a most deserving recipient. Michael has been a consistent backbone of animation in Ireland, and he has worked in the industry for five decades. Of his many credits, he produced the original Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles back in 1989 working with Jimmy Murakami. Michael has always been generous with his time and has assisted countless animation producers and studios sharing advice and his experience.”
