1. When did you think about a career as a dancer/producer and what were your first steps into it?
I wasn’t born when Riverdance first amazed the world in 1995 but I grew up watching it. I’m pretty certain the first time I observed the very mesmerising Reel around the Sun (the opening number of the show) I was instantly captivated and decided at about five years old that I would do whatever it takes to dance that number on stage some day. I danced through life and at 18 was determined to become a professional dancer with the show I adored.
2. Best gigs you’ve been to?
One of the best experiences I ever had was attending a Bruce Springsteen concert with my mum and dad in Belfast in 2013. He is my dad’s favourite musician so I was always inspired listening to his album in the kitchen or during car journeys. The concert was sensational and the Bruce captured the audience only heightened my own desire to perform for a large audience some day.
3. Fantasy wedding/birthday party band?
An absolute dream band would be Mumford & Sons. I love their music! It has inspired me on so many occasions, before a show or a rehearsal. I’ve also listened to them on repeat during travel days on tour.
4. The record you’d take to a desert island and why?
Hmm… This is a hard one as I love music and all different kinds. But I would most definitely bring Riverdance, as ironic as that is. During this pandemic whenever I am having a tougher day, I put on the album and my mood instantly changes; I am invigorated again with determination and positivity.
5. And the book you’d take?
I’m a huge bookworm. In school I fell in love with books because of an excellent English teacher. One of the first books we analysed was The Great Gatsby – we pulled that book apart and its depth totally intrigued me. I think I’d bring it.
6. Top three films?
Erin Brockovich – it's fantastic. Julia Roberts's stunning performance; a true story about how one powerful woman changes the lives of thousands – that’s inspiring. The Greatest Showman –a huge extravaganza of music and dance. Dirty Dancing – I’m a sucker for romance, and I loved the chemistry between Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Gray.
7. Worst film you’ve seen and why?
I’m sure The Twilight Saga moves aren't the worst I've seen but they didn’t live up to the fantastic books.
8. Favourite authors?
Dr Carol Dweck, I read her book Mindset last year and I truly believe it helped me drive myself in new ways and helped me grow and push new boundaries. Paul Kalanithi wrote When Breath Becomes Air, a must read for everyone. He is a neurosurgeon who receives his own scary diagnosis and questions the meaning of life – it brings you on an emotional roller-coaster.
9. Sports you most enjoy?
Gaelic football is my all-time favourite sport to watch. I support my home county of Tyrone and I don’t often miss a game. I personally love to swim, and enjoy weight training. And I do Pilates at least three times a week –. I recently qualified as a Reformer Pilates instructor.
10. Ideal holiday destination?
Recently my heart has been set on going to Santorini – the sunsets and views seem beautiful.
11. Pet hates?
Being kept late or if someone is texting while driving.
12. What’s your favourite:
Dinner? A steak dinner with pepper sauce.
Dessert? Churros.
Drink? Iced caramel latte.
13. Who is your best friend and how do you know each other?
My mum will always always be my best friend. If I listed all the reasons why I’d be typing for a very long time. She is the strongest woman I know and she teaches me that every day I can try to be a better person than I was the day before. She is the world’s greatest.
14. Is there a God?
I like to believe there is.
The newly released Riverdance 25 DVD, a recording of the Riverdance 25th Anniversary Show filmed at the 3Arena Dublin, is available to purchase now from wienerworld.com. Check out Amy Mae Dolan's YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCfyAS5uzvK3Irixdam5R3iA
