Lisa McHugh: From Busking to Broadway




Lisa McHugh is a shining example of someone who followed her dreams despite the odds, going from busking on the streets of Ireland to performing on Broadway stages in New York City.
Her journey began in Ballymena, a small town in Northern Ireland. As a child, she was captivated by the stories and melodies of Irish folk music, and she picked up the guitar at a young age. By her teenage years, she was busking on the streets of Dublin, honing her skills and sharing her music with passersby.

In 2009, McHugh's talent caught the attention of musician Moya Brennan, who invited her to join the Irish music group Clannad. With Clannad, she toured the world, performing in front of sold-out crowds and sharing the stage with legendary artists such as Bono and Van Morrison.

In 2016, McHugh decided to take a leap of faith and move to New York City to pursue her dream of performing on Broadway. It wasn't an easy transition, and she faced challenges adapting to a new city and finding her place in the competitive world of theater. But her determination never wavered.

In 2018, McHugh's big break came when she was cast in the Broadway musical Come From Away, a heartwarming story about 7,000 stranded passengers who were welcomed into the small town of Gander, Newfoundland after 9/11. McHugh played Beulah Cooper, a local woman who opened her home and heart to strangers. Her performance was praised by critics and earned her a Tony Award nomination.

Since then, McHugh has continued to shine on Broadway, starring in musicals such as The Ferryman and Once. She has also released her own solo album, Wildfire, which showcased her powerful vocals and songwriting skills. McHugh's journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and the transformative nature of following one's dreams. Her story is an inspiration to anyone who has ever doubted their ability to achieve their goals.

  • McHugh's success is a testament to the power of following one's dreams, no matter how daunting they may seem.
  • Her ability to connect with audiences through her music and acting is a testament to her talent and her genuine love for what she does.
  • McHugh's journey is a reminder that anything is possible with hard work and determination.