A London dream: former Limerick Rose bids for spot at leading drama school
Molli-Ann O’Halloran hosts variety night in a bid to raise more than €20,000 to pursue her dream
A FORMER Limerick Rose is seeking the support of the public to pursue her dream of joining a leading drama college in London.
Talented singer, dancer and performer Molli-Ann O’Halloran, who hails from Ennis Road, has been offered a place on a one-year course at the London School of Musical Theatre starting this September.
But in order to head cross-channel, she now needs to raise £17,500 for tuition, a figure which converts to more than €20,000.
And that’s not to mention the soaring cost of living in the British capital, with student rents starting from £400 (around €462) each week.
Sadly Molli-Ann, Limerick’s Rose in 2023, is not eligible for standard State funding or other support – so she is hoping the public will back her, with a variety event entitled ‘A London Dream’ taking place in Castletroy Park Hotel on Wednesday night, June 17.
"I have something in my gut, saying I think it will work out. I don’t know how yet, but I think it will,” she said on Live95FM.
"The school in London has been lovely and given me a £3,000 bursary towards my funds. It’s chipping away, and it’s coming down. I'm trying not to look at it as the big £17,500 plus accommodation!”
In order to secure her place in the London School of Musical Theatre, Molli-Ann explained how she had to apply and wait for a response.
Following this, she was invited to send two videos of contrasting songs.
It was not until a third stage, she performed in person at the school in London.
"They are looking for passion and someone they are able to teach. The choreographer said they cannot teach passion, but if they can see it on your face, they are more than happy to teach it to you. I am hoping I’ve shown them something,” said Molli-Ann, who has graduated from the Irish World Academy of Music and Dance at University of Limerick.
She’s hoping next week's fundraiser goes a long way to helping her on her way.
The event from 7pm features a range of Limerick talent. Entry is €20, and tickets will be available on the door.