Cork Profile
Irene Warren - Evil Stepmother in ‘Cinderella’
Tell us about your career progression to your role today:
I began my professional career in the Cork Opera House at the age of 16. I played Goldilocks in the panto ‘Goldilocks and the Three Bears’. I moved to London at 18 and joined the London production of ‘Les Miserables’ and remained there for 11 years. I performed in: ‘Miss Saigon’, ‘Grease’, 'Starlight Express’, ‘Summer Holiday’ to name but a few of my West End credits. In Cork, I have played Mary in ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’, Maria in ‘The Sound of Music’ and ‘Kitty Kiernan’ in the acclaimed ‘Michael Collins’. Most recently I performed the one woman show ‘Tell me on a Sunday’ under the brilliant direction of Trevor Ryan.
What is the most enjoyable aspect of what you do?
Meeting and working with the most amazing bunch of people. Especially in this cast - they are all so incredibly talented. Everyday I am in awe of how funny they are. I’ve learned so much about myself through working with Catherine Mahon Buckley. She is one of the most beautiful people that I have ever worked with and a superb director. On this particular show, I have made friends for life!
What motivates you?
My passion for performing and inhabiting characters, whether it is Shakespeare or panto. Give every role the best of yourself.
What advice would you give your 15 year old self?
Good question! I think I would say to love everything that arises and trust that there is a reason and a lesson that will ultimately make you a better person. I would say ‘Don’t sweat the small stuff as everything has a tendency to flow and pass’. Most importantly, I would say … ‘you’ve got this!’
If you weren’t in the job you have, what would you be doing?
I’m a Reiki practitioner and life coach, so I would be doing that.
What is your greatest life or career achievement to-date?
Without a doubt my greatest achievement is being a mum. Now I’m not out of the woods yet but so far, he’s actually very normal.
Who has had the biggest influence on you in your life?
My first dance teacher Tricia Long. She believed in me and always encouraged me to keep reaching and never give up.
What is the life dream now?
To always be happy.
How do you switch off?
Read a good book or watch repeats of ‘Gogglebox’.
What is your favourite Cork memory?
Playing in the snow with my son about 5 or 6 years ago, when we had school off and everyone just played.
What is your favourite place in Cork?
Shop: Brown Thomas
Restaurant: Eco in Douglas
Place: Garretsown Beach
Do you have a favourite quote or motto?
‘Namaste; I see you for who you are.’ Everyone is trying their best with where they are at, at any given moment so always try see the good and show compassion and kindness. We never really know what other people are dealing with inside.
When are you at your happiest?
When I’m with my friends, family, and my son.
What is your hidden talent?
I can play ‘Doe a Deer’ on the tin whistle - badly!
What might we be surprised to know about you?
I’m actually quite introverted and shy and love spending time in my own company.
Anything else you’d like to share with us?
I make a great pasta.
I’ve taken on the role of the Evil Stepmother in The Everyman/CADA Production of ‘Cinderella’, the family friendly Christmas pantomime continuing at The Everyman until 15 January. Book tickets on 021-4501673 or www.everymancork.com.
Factfile:
Name and position: Irene Warren - Evil Stepmother in ‘Cinderella’
Lives: Donnybrook in Douglas
Family: My gorgeous son Ben
Pets: None
Favourite thing about Cork: A feeling of being at home
Least favourite thing about Cork: The traffic
One thing you’d change about Cork: Whose idea was it to completely change the traffic flow in the city??? Almost impossible to cross the river.
When you were small, what did you want to be as a grown-up?
An actress