The stage is set for star pupil Gillian

Gillian Quinn (18) had a double reason to jump for joy yesterday.

For Gillian, of Corcullen, Co Galway, has already won a place at one of the UK's top musical theatre schools - so she doesn't have to worry too much about her results after completing her Leaving Cert exams.

Later this year she will pack her bags and head off to further her love of dancing and singing by studying at Phil Winston's Theatreworks in Blackpool.

The graduate of the Performing Arts School in Galway is the only Irish student to have been offered a place there.

Now she is hoping to follow in the footsteps of former Performing Arts School student and West End leading lady Aoife Mulholland, who also completed her musical theatre education in the UK.

'Since I found out that I had got a place in Blackpool, it has really taken the pressure off having to do well in the Leaving Cert,' she said.

'I am really excited to be going to study musical theatre in the UK as I have wanted it for so long, but I am a little nervous about leaving my family and friends behind.'

- Brian McDonald

Irish Independent