Billie Barry

Billie Barry (died 30 September 2014) was an Irish singer, dancer and choreographer who founded the Billie Barry Stage School in 1964.

Background

Billie Barry was born in Dublin, Ireland. Her father John Clarke-Barry was a respected musician who took part in many orchestras. Her mother was an amateur operatic singer. Barry started performing as a singer at the age of five. She later joined the Barry Sisters singing group, which toured Ireland and the UK.[1]

Career

She started the stage school after her husband Paddy was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. Paddy died the following year.[2]

Billie Barry became a household name in Ireland due to the success the school enjoyed. Notable pupils include Angeline Ball, Susan McFadden, Brian McFadden, Mikey Graham (of Boyzone), Samantha Mumba, Hilda Fay, Louise Bowden, Brenda Donoghue, Lisa Lambe, Ruth-Anne Cunningham, Devon Murray and Jacinta Whyte.[3]

References
  1. "Billie Barry, legend of Irish stage, dies". Irish Times. 30 September 2014. Retrieved 2 October 2014.
  2. "Billie Barrie Dies". Irish Independent. 30 September 2014. Retrieved 2 October 2014.
  3. "Billie Barry Stage School". Retrieved 2 October 2014.


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