Two Irish women will make history today by becoming the first Traveller women to perform at New York’s famous Carnegie Hall.
Selina O’Leary and Liz Connors were invited to sing at the world-renowned venue after a video of one of Ms O’Leary’s past performances was posted on YouTube.
The women will sing alongside two traditional musicians from the University of Limerick at the concert entitled Discovering Abilities.
Ms O’Leary said the two women were thrilled to be invited to represent not only Travellers but also Ireland.
The 19-year-old added: “We will be the first ever Traveller women to perform at Carnegie Hall."
The two women are participants in the ‘Song for All’ project, a partnership between the Co Carlow VEC, a senior traveller training centre and the University of Limerick. The project aims to help travellers to further their musical education.
Damien Peelo, director of the Irish Traveller Movement, said: “We believe Selina and Liz are inspirations ambassadors for their community…we cannot overestimate the value of their involvement in this concert for all travellers in a way which will enhance and contribute to their shared pride and no doubt help to build confidence in their traveller identity."