INTERVIEW: Celtic Woman celebrates 15-year anniversary
Photo: Celtic Woman features, from left, Chloë Agnew, Mairéad Carlin, Megan Walsh and Tara McNeill. Photo courtesy of Celtic Woman / Provided by State Theatre with permission.
The Irish musical sensation known as Celtic Woman has entranced millions of audience members around the world, and in 2020, they are celebrating their 15th anniversary. They were set to bring their sweeping singing and intricate musicality to the State Theatre in New Brunswick, New Jersey, on St. Patrick’s Day, but unfortunately that concert has been postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Celtic Woman’s Celebration tour consists of original founding member Chloë Agnew, plus Mairéad Carlin, Megan Walsh and multi-instrumentalist Tara McNeill. At the State Theatre, audiences can expect the group’s unique interpretations of “You Raise Me Up,” “Danny Boy” and “Teir Abhaile Riu,” among other tunes.
McNeill joined the group in August 2016. In addition to playing violin and singing for Celtic Woman, she also puts her intricate harp skills on full display for the audience. A graduate of the Royal Irish Academy of Music, McNeill has toured China, Argentina and seemingly everywhere in between. On stage, she has collaborated with the likes of the RTE Concert Orchestra, Ulster Orchestra and Anúna, according to her official biography.
Recently Hollywood Soapbox exchanged emails with McNeill about her time in Celtic Woman and what fans can expect on this tour. Questions and answers have been slightly edited for style.
Can you believe it has been 15 years since the founding of Celtic Woman?
I can’t believe it’s been 15 years. … In a way I feel like each time we get up on stage it’s the first time — the energy, the excitement and love for what we do. I am so grateful that people have continued to support Celtic Woman over the last 15 years. Without them we wouldn’t still be here today.
For those who have not seen your concert yet, what can they expect when you come to New Jersey?
This Celebration tour will take you on an uplifting journey through music, song and dance. We are performing the very best music of the last 15 years: the energetic dance numbers, the favorites like ‘Danny Boy,’ ‘You Raise me Up’ and ‘Amazing Grace’ and all on a gorgeous stage with our amazing musicians, dancers and singers!
When did you first fall in love with the violin?
I grew up listening to my siblings practicing pianos, cellos and violins! I was desperate to start myself, and when I did the violin became another part of me. I loved being able to express something deep within myself through the instrument. But I think I fell in love when I progressed and stopped sounding like a crying cat!
Do you feel that the group are ambassadors of Irish culture?
We definitely feel like ambassadors of Irish culture and ambassadors of Irish women in the arts. Celtic Woman has provided a platform for 15 women over 15 years to bring their talents to the world stage, and these women have brought the best of Irish music with them across the world along with incredible musicians and dancers. It’s an honor to share our Irish culture with the world.
Why do you think this relatively small country has had such a big impact in world music?
Ireland may be small, but it has a vast treasure trove of music, and it always comes from our hearts and our souls. Our music resonates with people as it’s about love, loss, travel, and people all over the world can relate to these things. Music is a universal language, and the Irish love to share our language with anyone who’ll listen, so we’ve shared it all over the world!
During these concerts around St. Patrick’s Day, your group is touring nonstop. Does it get tiring?
We feel very lucky to be able to do what we love for a living. Yes, it can be tiring, but not many people get to perform to as many amazing audiences as we do so we appreciate every night we’re up on stage. Around St. Patrick’s Day we have more energy than ever because we’re in our element, and we feel the enormous amount of love from our audiences wanting to celebrate all things Irish with us!
What’s the future look like for Celtic Woman?
The future is bright and exciting! We have more tours lined up, and we’re really enjoying our 15th anniversary celebrations!
By John Soltes / Publisher / John@HollywoodSoapbox.com
Celtic Woman intended to bring their Celebration — The Tour to the State Theatre in New Brunswick, New Jersey. The performance is now postponed. The coronavirus pandemic has disrupted many theaters and entertainment offerings around the world, including in New Jersey. Click here for more information.
