DONEGAL is beaming with pride after Niamh Shevlin, representing the county, delivered a captivating performance at the 2024 International Rose of Tralee.

The annual pageant, hosted in the Dome in Co Kerry, saw 32 women from across the globe competing for the title, with New Zealand’s Keely O’Grady ultimately taking the crown.

However, it was Donegal’s Niamh Shevlin who stole the spotlight with her stunning talent, charm, and touching story.

Niamh, hailing from Glenswilly, had the honour of opening the show as the first Rose to grace the stage on Tuesday.

During her introduction, the 27-year-old shared her deep love for dance, teaching, and her family.

Her journey to Tralee has been particularly meaningful, providing much-needed solace to her family following a period of grief.

In a heartfelt conversation with host Dáithí Ó Sé, Niamh revealed that her application to become the Donegal Rose was inspired by her late aunt, Alyssa Thompson (née Callan), who sadly passed away last December.

“My auntie passed away just after Christmas at the age of 44, there was a lot of sadness in the family,” Niamh shared.

Supported by her cousin Shannon, Niamh hoped that participating in the Rose of Tralee would be a fitting tribute to her beloved aunt.

The dancer paid a special homage to her aunt during the Rose Banquet by wearing her aunt’s prom dress, a beautiful creation made by Niamh’s grandmother in 1996.

“I hope she’s proud of me now tonight,” Niamh said.

A lifelong Irish dancer, Niamh shared her impressive journey in the world of dance. At the age of 21, she auditioned for Michael Flatley’s Lord of the Dance, a move that led to her joining the cast on their tour of China in 2018.

She continued to tour with the show for five years before returning to Ireland.

Dance is a family affair for the Shevlins, as Niamh’s brother, Gavin, also auditioned and toured with both Lord of the Dance and Riverdance alongside her.

In addition to her professional accomplishments, she has also made a difference through her volunteer work.

In March 2023, she spent ten days in Uganda with Irish Aid, where she taught and performed Irish dancing, sharing her culture with others.

During the talent segment of the Rose of Tralee, Niamh chose to showcase her Irish dancing skills, a decision that left the audience in awe.

Wearing a red full-length mermaid-shaped gown that transformed into a short dress, Niamh delivered a dazzling routine to the tune of “The Hills of Donegal.”

The dress, which featured a red fabric rose on the left side, added a dramatic flair to her performance, highlighting her exceptional talent.