A CORK musician and dancer who performed for US president Barack Obama at the White House on St Patrick’s Day has been invited to return next year.
Maggie McCarthy (23), from Dripsey, was honoured at a reception in Cork City Hall last night.
Up to 60 supporters turned out to congratulate the talented college artist, who travels to Los Angeles next month to begin recording a pop/rock album.
McCarthy, along with her musical entourage and her promoter and creative partner Michael Anthony, met Mr Obama and the First Lady in the White House.
“My heart was thumping when I met the president but he was lovely, so down to earth, a pure gentleman. And Michelle Obama was fantastic, so welcoming, everyone was really good to us there.
“All of us were over the moon,” Maggie said.
The invite to perform in the White House was the result of an e-mail Maggie sent to Minister for Foreign Affairs Micheál Martin, which sparked the journey of a lifetime for the talented young performer.
“I was following the elections and I just knew he would be voted in. It was just an idea I got in my head, it was like a dream really, but then it became a goal, I was determined. But when it actually happened, it was unreal, I couldn’t quite believe it,” she said.
The final year University College Cork student of music will complete her studies this month, before departing for Hollywood where she will begin work on her album in the US.
“They have organised six African American back-up singers for me, so I’m excited about that, I just need to get my exams out of the way first,” she said.
At last night’s civic reception, Maggie showcased her finely honed ability to dance while playing the fiddle for a crowd consisting of family, friends, councillors and Cork’s Lord Mayor, Brian Bermingham.
“We just want to acknowledge Maggie’s achievement at the White House, it’s a celebration for a little girl from Dripsey and we have reason to celebrate. . . ,” Mr Anthony said.