Aishling steps closer to achieving her dream
CASTLEBRIDGE native Aishling Jones is one step closer to achieving her dream of a life on the stage following her fundraising night in the Riverbank House Hotel last week. The 17-year-old staged a night of music and entertainment in an effort to get a head start when she commences a course in Musical Theatre at PPA in Guildford in September. More than 200 people came along on the night to show their support for the young star at the night of music from Aishling, 7th Fret, Eric Hayes and Emily Brazzill. Aishling has been carving a name for herself on the stage since she was fouryears-old. She has been in the spotlight on numerous occasions with Wexford School of Ballet and has also shown off her vocal skills through her training with Chris Holland. She is also a keen actress and has played many leading roles in local plays. Studying musical theatre has always been a dream of Aishlings and, though she is only in fifth year in Loreto, she decided to go to England for a trial audition earlier this year. However, according to her father Edward, the adjudicators were so impressed with her performance that they offered her a place on the spot. ‘We made the decision that she should just go ahead and do it,’ said Edward. ‘It’s what she wants to do and so, the Leaving Cert isn’t really necessary. We thought she should go for it while the offer is there.’ In the future, Aisling hopes to go on to perform in the West End and perhaps even shine on the Broadway stage. Father Edward said that they will support her all the way along. ‘She’s following her dream,’ he said. ‘She’s born for this.’