Tributes are being paid following the death of well-known Waterford costume designer and businesswoman Blánaid Mac Cann.

Blánaid, who lived in Dunmore East and was originally from St Luke’s in Cork City, passed away on Friday.

She was best known as the co-founder of NOMAC Productions, a successful costume creation and design business which she established alongside the late Cathy Nolan.

For almost 40 years, Blánaid was a familiar name in Waterford’s theatre and entertainment scene, providing costumes for productions and events across the region.

She is also known for making all of the costumes for Waterford Panto Society, right back to when it started. 

She was also well known for supplying costumes to businesses participating in the popular Tops of the Town competition.

Blánaid also recently received the Waterford News & Star Green Room Lifetime Achievement Award.

The annual event, held at Waterford’s Theatre Royal, saw local workplaces compete on stage to raise money for charity.

NOMAC Productions was also among the businesses destroyed in the Tycor fire in Waterford.

Waterford actor Jamie Beamish has paid tribute to Blánaid, saying she was a huge source of support and encouragement during the early stages of his acting career.

Blánaid will repose at Thompson’s Funeral Home on Barrack Street in Waterford on Sunday, October 25th, from 7pm until 8.30pm, with vigil prayers and Rosary at 8pm.

Her Requiem Mass will take place at Holy Cross Church in Killea, Dunmore East, on Monday, October 26th, at 2pm, followed by burial in the adjoining new cemetery.

The family has requested that the house remain private at all times.

No flowers are requested, with donations, if desired, to the Society of St. Vincent de Paul in Waterford.