1. When did you think about a career in theatre and what were your first steps into it?
I have always loved to sing and act. Some of our earliest family photographs are of me with a microphone. I studied Performing Arts at BIFHE, a much-revered course based in Belfast that unfortunately doesn’t exist anymore. I then had the opportunity to finish my degree at Queen’s University.
After uni, I attended lots of auditions for different projects including the acclaimed show Over The Rainbow, the BBC and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s search for a new Dorothy, gaining a respectable place in the top 20 out of 10,000 performers. I never really settled in London however, as I am a bit of a home bird, so I returned to Belfast and was cast as the lead in a pantomime and I haven’t looked back since.
2 Best gigs you’ve been to?
Lady Gaga’s Monster Ball at the Odyssey Arena in 2010 was incredible; it was more of a theatre experience than a concert. I saw Bon Iver in Memphis in 2019 – I wouldn’t be the biggest Bon Iver fan but what he achieved with sound that night was spectacular. It was a sonic extravaganza and it blew me away. Can I cheat for my third choice? My sister, Jolene, and I got to sing with the Ulster Orchestra in the SSE Arena for Lush! Classical and it is always the most amazing night. We get to sing live in front of 11,000 people with all the bells and whistles and it is just a dream come true.
3 Fantasy wedding/birthday party band?
This would be a combo of Freddie Mercury, Prince, Stevie Wonder, The Blue Nile, Prefab Sprout and Bette Midler.
4 The record you’d take to a desert island?
Can I bring a mixtape? If I absolutely had to choose just one album it would probably be Made In Heaven by Queen. I just love the feel of the album and it reminds me of being a teenager. It was the last thing Freddie Mercury ever worked on and his vocal just soars on it despite his illness. But I’d really struggle without some Prince or Stevie Wonder to listen to.
5. And the book?
I’m really into true crime and love all of John E Douglas’s books. They’re definitely not for the faint of heart so approach with caution.
6. Top three films?
Jaws is my favourite movie – I think it’s perfect and never get tired of watching it. I also love The Silence of the Lambs – Jodie Foster and Anthony Hopkins are stunning in it. My third choice is a tie between The ‘Burbs and Ace Ventura When Nature Calls. I love a good, silly comedy.
7. Worst film you’ve seen?
I hated the remake of The Hills Have Eyes. It was far too disturbing. I left the cinema after about 20 minutes. It was awful.
8. Favourite authors?
Carl Sagan, John E Douglas and Larry McMurtry.
9. Sport you most enjoy?
I love tennis and adore Roger Federer.
10. Ideal holiday destination?
Bora Bora, an island in the South Pacific, looks like absolute paradise.
11. Pet hates?
I hate unkindness and insincerity. I’m also not a fan of loud eaters.
12. What’s your favourite:?
Dinner?
I love my mum’s Sunday roast. She makes it with all the trimmings every Sunday and it is to die for.
Dessert?
I love cheesecake – any flavour.
Drink?
You can’t beat a good pint of Guinness.
13. Who is your best friend and how do you know each other?
My sister Jolene is my best friend.
14. Is there a God?
I consider myself an agnostic atheist – work that one out.
:: Philippa O'Hara will be performing in Cahoots NI’s upcoming online show the University of Wonder & Imagination. The unique show allows audiences to effectively direct the performance, based on their interaction with the performers. It opens at the Belfast International Arts Festival from October 22-25 and October 29-November 1. For more information or to book visit Cahootsni.com or belfastinternationalartsfestival.com
