A Star in the Making: Meet Young Performer, Saoirse
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Saoirse, a vibrant 16-year-old, is a rising star deeply immersed in the world of performing arts. Since 2022, CADA performing arts has been her “second home,” and this year she expanded her horizons with the National Youth Musical Theater (NYMT), journeying to the UK to collaborate with talented theatre professionals.
Her connection to the stage runs deep – almost literally. Saoirse was “on stage before I was even born” as her mother, Eimear, a passionate performer and songwriter, played a lead role with the Mitchelstown Musical Society while pregnant with her. Early childhood was filled with backstage memories, fostering a love that continues to blossom.
Hailing from the picturesque village of Durrus in West Cork,Saoirse is currently a Transition Year student at Schull Community College. Her family provides unwavering support; her mother drives her to rehearsals and shows, and her father, Sean, works as an SNA. Her brother, John, is a first-year student at University College Cork.
But perhaps her closest bond is with her mother. “My mum is my best friend,” Saoirse shares, describing a relationship filled with performances, cozy nights in matching Christmas pajamas, strolls through the Marina Market, and shared viewings of Stranger Things.
Saoirse’s earliest memories are filled with laughter alongside her adored grandfather, who always orchestrated fun outings. A pivotal moment was seeing Cats at the Bórd Gais Theatre at age five, where she met the cast, already knowing every lyric from her home recordings. She even auditioned for her first CADA panto singing “Memory” – a song her mother also learned at the same age, taught by Miss Mahon Buckley.
When asked who she most admires, Saoirse instantly names Fionula Linehan. “she’s so natural on the stage,” she explains, cherishing the scenes they share. As the youngest in the cast, she’s soaking up knowledge from experienced performers. She also credits her music teacher, Sean Walsh, with invaluable guidance, adding with a laugh, “He might also be my best friend!”
Saoirse is open about her ADHD diagnosis and the challenges it presents. What irritates her most is negativity towards her enthusiastic and talkative nature. “I’m VERY chatty and genuinely enthusiastic. I can’t help it,” she says, emphasizing the importance of acceptance and understanding.
Méadbh Tierney: From Cinderella to Continued Training in Musical Theatre
Méadbh Tierney is currently performing as the Fairy Godmother in The Everyman/CADA Production of Cinderella at The Everyman theatre in Cork. Following this role, Tierney has a busy schedule planned, including auditions and intensive training programs aimed at furthering her career in musical theatre.
Current Role: The Fairy Godmother in Cinderella
Tierney stars as the Fairy Godmother in Cinderella, directed by Catherine Mahon buckley. This production, a collaboration between The Everyman and CADA (Cork Academy of Dramatic Arts), promises a fresh take on the classic fairytale. the play is described as having “more sparkle, sass, and surprises” than previous iterations. https://www.evermancork.com/whats-on/cinderella/
Future Training and Auditions
Looking ahead, Tierney is focused on developing her skills and pursuing opportunities in the performing arts. her plans include:
* Auditions: Tierney intends to participate in auditions following the conclusion of the Cinderella run.
* TY Musical Theatre Programme (MTU): In january, she will be attending the TY Musical Theatre Programme at Munster Technological University (MTU).
* Stagebox UK Industry Training (Dublin): In February, Tierney will travel to Dublin for industry training with Stagebox UK, a well-regarded association offering professional growth for performers. https://stagebox.co.uk/
About Stagebox UK
Stagebox UK provides intensive training courses for aspiring musical theatre performers. Their programs focus on developing skills in singing, acting, and dance, and offer valuable industry insights and networking opportunities. They are known for bringing in industry professionals to work with students.
Key Takeaways:
* Méadbh Tierney is currently playing the Fairy Godmother in Cinderella at The Everyman in Cork.
* She is committed to ongoing professional development through training programs at MTU and Stagebox UK.
* Tierney is actively seeking audition opportunities to advance her career in musical theatre.
This combination of performance experience and dedicated training positions Méadbh Tierney for continued success in the competitive world of musical theatre. Her proactive approach to skill development and industry engagement demonstrates a strong commitment to her craft and a promising future in the performing arts.