MAGICALLY talented young dancers who wowed Disney audiences have spoken for the first time about their stunning breakthrough performance.
The dancers from across Donegal, especially towns like Ballyshannon and Bundoran, were a star attraction when they took to the stage at Disneyland Paris.
Some were as young as six years old and, in preparation, worked with amazing coaches such as Dublin performer Brian Gilligan who had the role of Scar in Disney’s live Lion King show.
Award-winning choreographer Suzanne Byrne, who set up the Stars of the West Dance and Performance School in 2009, said the kids will remember it as the trip of a “lifetime”.
Dance school owner Suzanne Byrne with Disney character Goofy in Disneyland Paris in March 2026.
She said: “The trip marked their first time visiting Disneyland and an overseas performance.
“This was a fantastic opportunity for the 17 young performers, aged from six to 17 years.
“The group was selected from a competitive international field last September to take part in the Disney Performing Arts On Stage Programme for young performers.
“They all were so proud of representing Donegal and Ireland on the international stage.
“They got to showcase their talents on an international stage. They had prepared for their performance with taking part in a professional vocal recoding in Donegal with musical director Luke Devaney.
“They also took part in a musical theatre workshop with Dublin performer Brian Gilligan who had performed the role of Scar in Disney’s Lion King for over two years and who was also a finalist in Britain’s Got Talent. They were very fortunate to work with such amazing professionals when getting ready for Paris.”
Suzanne added: “The group travelled to Disneyland Paris in March past and performed a 30-minute piece on the Disney stage.”
The young dance stars on stage at Disney Paris.
