From Drimnagh to the Civic stage – meet one of HXT’s longest-serving members, whose love for musical theatre shows no signs of fading.
Can you tell us a bit about yourself? Where did you grow up?
I was born in the back bedroom of my family home on Errigal Road in Drimnagh. Delivered by our next door neighbour as I was born before the Doctor even had time to arrive. The fourth of six children. We lived in a Cul de Sac where only two of the neighbours had cars and so we spent all of our free time playing outside. Skipping, Hopscotch and rounders a great childhood. My first time on stage was in Mourne Road Hall age 7 when I played the wicked witch in our school concert and so grew my love for drama.
Tell us about your involvement with HXT. How did it come about?
I joined HXT in 1992. My sister was Chairperson and my brother and sister in law were also involved and as my children were well past the baby stage I was delighted to join. The first show I did was Showboat – I loved it and was hooked and have been with HXT ever since. I have played some wonderful parts in some wonderful shows, Oklahoma, Fiddler on the Roof, Sweet Charity, Honk, Sister Act and also enjoy being in the chorus . When I am not actually in the show I love helping out backstage. Our first show in the Civic was Fiddler on the Roof in 1999 and we have put our shows on in the Civic ever since. It is a wonderful venue with the most helpful staff.
What does being part of HXT mean to you?
I have made lifelong friends in HXT they are a wonderful family and I can think of no better way to spend my free time than singing, dancing and acting with this wonderful group. Even 33 years on I have never lost my enthusiasm for Musical Theatre both onstage and off and to be with a group of like minded people of all ages is the best thing ever. It keeps me young.
What can Tallaght audiences expect from this show?
We all have had the best time rehearsing for The Addams Family. It is a fun, zany, off the wall show with wonderful music and songs. Our Director has been amazing and while I am not a dancer I have to admit I have enjoyed the wonderful choreography in this show. It is a show where you can leave your worries and cares behind and just sit back, relax and enjoy – you will not be disappointed.
Tell us a random fact about yourself?
I am barred from the Brazen Head Pub.
I was employed by Irish Life as a ‘Viking’ Amma the breadmaker in the Irish Life Viking Adventure in St Audeons Church in 1988 for the Dublin Millenium. There were 2 groups of 11 and we worked on alternative days. My viking group was barred for being too ‘rowdy’. Vikings too rowdy???????
