Limerick’s Hollie O’Donoghue leading in West End

Mired in greasepaint as Eponine, "a street urchin in love"
Mired in greasepaint as Eponine, “a street urchin in love”

CONGRATULATIONS to Limerick lady Hollie O’Donoghue whose excellent work in the West End’s ‘Les Miserables’ has bagged her principal role of Eponine.

As of December 5, this Dooradoyle actress will shine even more brightly in Cameron Mackintosh’s production at the Queen’s Theatre, following her bump up from ensemble parts when he saw her perform live as the street urchin.

The natural blonde was all laughs and optimism while speaking to Limerick Post about the break as one of Les Mis prominent roles (Fantine, Valjean and herself, Eponine who falls on wretched times).

Subbing for the actress who had played Eponine for two dates, Tuesday November 8 and the matinée on Wednesday 9, Hollie was told by subsequently that Cameron Mackintosh had come to the show to see her meet the challenge. That was that.

hollie-odonogue-2016-smallTough going in eight shows a week, three hours at a time?

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“To be honest, I find it more difficult to be in the ensemble as this show is heavy for the ensemble. I’m excited. The cast has just celebrated 31 years of Les Miserables, ongoing since 1985 as the only original production in the West End”.

Little wonder at her talent, honed first at Expressive Arts prior to Centre Stage School here in Limerick. She won an AIMS as Best Actress for her vivacious, vulnerable turn in ’42nd Street’ for Cecilian Musical Society. On then to graduate from The London School of Musical Theatre and work professionally since in shows such ‘The Commitments’.

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