Celtic Woman Christmas - Virginian Pilot

Since forming nearly a decade ago, the Irish musical ensemble Celtic Woman has become a cultural phenomenon with its Celine Dion-meets-"Riverdance" aesthetic.

Last year, the group's holiday album "Home for Christmas" debuted at No. 1 on Billboard's World Music chart - marking the eighth time the all-female juggernaut has done so. That feat broke a record and earned the ladies the distinction of being named World Music Artists of 2012 by the music industry trade group.

And that's despite shifting its lineup over the years. Vocalists have come and gone, but the group continues to be a popular attraction - particularly during the holidays.

So exactly what does it take to be a Celtic Woman?

"Well obviously you have to be a good singer," laughed Mairead Nesbitt, the group's violin player and sole original member.

An impressive set of pipes is a good start, but that trait alone won't be enough to get the gig the next time a slot opens for Celtic Woman.

"It's always a careful decision when choosing a new vocalist," Nesbitt explained by phone during a recent tour stop in Las Vegas. "We have a signature sound, so it's important to consider the blend of the voices as well. The singers have to enhance each other. Our fans have come to know and love that sound, so that can never go away."

As lead violinist, Nesbitt is integral to the group's winning formula of blending traditional Irish music with new age and adult contemporary pop music.

A former All-Ireland fiddle champion, Nesbitt has played with a list of luminaries from Van Morrison to Sinead O'Conner and was the original lead violinist in the Irish stage show "Lord of the Dance."

The 34-year-old musician joined Celtic Woman in 2004 for what she thought would be a one-time show. Originally, the group was created by the musical director of "Riverdance" for an Irish TV special. PBS began airing the show in America a year later, paving the way for a concert DVD that sold more than 1 million copies. The group then released its self-titled debut record, which topped the music charts for a record-setting 81 weeks.

"People have been so supportive, and that means we must be doing something right," Nesbitt said. "I think we've been able to touch people, and that is the most important thing an artist can do."
Celtic Woman, which performs Sunday at the Ferguson Center for the Arts in Newport News, is typically more of a Broadway production than traditional concert; but come holiday season, the group opts for a cozier affair.

"The shows we do in other parts of the year are massive productions," Nesbitt said. "The arena tours are fantastic, but our Christmas show is very different. The venues are smaller, so it allows for a more intimate connection with the audience. And, we get to sing and play Christmas music; what's not to like about that?"

Following on the heels of last year's sold-out holiday tour, Celtic Woman will perform songs from its "Home for Christmas" album, an offering of amiable yuletide pop tunes and traditional Christmas carols.

During Sunday's performance the group will be accompanied by the Hampton Roads-based Virginia Symphony Orchestra.

"Christmas is a very big deal for Irish families," Nesbitt said. "Playing these songs always brings back that childhood feeling."

Celtic Woman Feature- Virginian Pilot Newspaper

Susan McFadden had just wrapped up her leading role in the London production of Legally Blonde- the Musical when she got the invitation.

“I was in Dublin visiting my parents,” said the performer about the phone call asking her to join the Irish female vocal ensemble, Celtic Woman. “Of course I absolutely jumped at the chance. I was over the moon.”

The 28 year old singer has good reason to be excited. Created by the musical director of “Riverdance,” Celtic Woman has become something of a phenomenon. Their 2005 debut release remained on Billboard Magazine’s World Music chart for a record-setting 81 weeks and their numerous PBS television specials are consistent ratings grabbers.

“I’ve followed the success of the girls over the years,” said McFadden, who joined the band late last year. “I really admire them. They are very dedicated to their work and dedicated to their fans. I think they are very elegant ladies and really good role models for young girls.”

The group, who perform Wednesday at Chrysler Hall in Norfolk, mix traditional Irish music with pop songs infused with a Celtic twist. A typical set list by the group may include everything from an Enya tune to a classic like “Danny Boy."

“Every Irish person has grown up with music in their house,” said McFadden by phone from a recent tour stop in Nashville, Tenn. “My mom is one of 11 children and my dad is one of 14 so there are hundreds of us in our immediate family. We were always having parties and without fail there was always music. At some point the guitars would come out and there would be singing. The music is really kept alive because we all keep singing these songs,” she added of Ireland’s rich musical heritage. “My great- great grandparents were probably singing these songs. It’s lovely to have those passed down.”

A native Dubliner, McFadden made her performing debut at the age of 11, playing the role of Annie in the classic musical. The entertainer’s theater background will serve her well in Celtic Woman. More Broadway event than traditional concert, the ensemble’s performances are typically highly theatrical, lavish affairs.

“Visually it is beautiful,” said McFadden of the group’s current production. “The costumes are stunning and the lighting is gorgeous.”

The show will also feature a champion bagpiper, a choir, a six piece band and Irish step dancers. Given the band’s considerable commercial success, it isn’t surprising that McFadden is just a bit nervous in her new role.

“The girls have all worked so hard,” she said of her band mates. “They’ve set the bar so high and are very passionate about what they do. It’s important to come in with the same standards. I want to make them proud.”

A seasoned performer in her own right, McFadden needn’t worry too much about measuring up.

Among the other notable entries on her resume is winning the British television reality show “Grease is the Word,” which landed her the lead role of Sandy in a West End production of “Grease.” She’s been a fixture in London’s musical theatre scene ever since. Now, the singer is eager to lend her performing chops to Celtic Woman’s brand new production called “Believe.” An album and companion DVD of the same name was released in January.

 “All of the songs are about belief and hope,” said McFadden. “There’s so much negativity in the world at the moment. All you need to do is turn on the television and see the news.”

McFadden says Celtic Woman’s latest show is designed to give the audience a much needed escape.

"The world can be a hard place and we want to take people out of that for a couple of hours. At times like this, entertainment is really important. I think we need more of it.” So, how does it feel to be an ambassador of that kind of inspiration? “It’s wonderful,” McFadden said. “It’s such an amazing feeling to know you have that ability to share something so powerful.”