FAREWELL: Roisin Chambers, pictured with Fiona Crowley, receiving a parting gift after graduating from the Fiona Crowley Stage School. Photo: Marie Carroll-O'Sullivan

By Michelle Crean

For years they have been learning how to tread the boards, enjoying singing and dance lessons as well as honing their acting skills.

But for some it was time to make way for a new stage in their lives and say goodbye to the Fiona Crowley Stage School as they graduated last week and prepare for college life.

Their teacher Fiona Crowley, who has taught them since they were very young was sad to see them go as she gave them a gift from the Kilkenny Shop and wished them well.

"I wish them well for the future," Fiona told the Killarney Advertiser.

"They will never be gone as they are always part of the Fiona Crowley Stage School."

Fiona founded her business 13 years ago, she has been acting since the age of four and has played leading roles with Killarney Musical Society over the years.

Working with Fiona Griffin and Stella O'Shea, she said they are like a family who nurture the children's talents and personalities. She runs her classes in the KDYS in Killarney as well as other centres in Kerry and says her summer camps are now booked out.

SAYING GOODBYE

Student Brendan Casey joined the stage school at a young age thanks to some encouragement from his nana Peggy.

"She said to Fiona when I was six-years-old "will you take him" as she dropped my sister Saoirse off to Irish dancing at the KDYS. I have enjoyed every minute.”

Roisin Chambers spent many summers with Fiona helping with her summer camps.

"The confidence and guidance at the stage school has given me focus to be a teacher and I will be attending Mary I next September."

Sarah Trant said attending the classes felt like "home".
“It’s the friends we make along the way as well as the guidance Fiona gives, that’s what I will miss the most. It’s somewhat home.”

Shauna White will miss the "absolute buzz" of Fiona’s shows and "the camaraderie of like minded people at the stage school”.

Usher Titus added that going to stage school was the obvious choice as she loved singing and performing as a child.

"At Fiona’s Stage School I was acknowledged and enjoyed the confidence being with like minded people and the encouragement they gave. I am so grateful to Fiona and I will miss stage school lots.”

Fiona added that this year's farewell was different to other years.

"Normally we have a party but this year we had to have it on Zoom. The other kids wrote poems as well."