Limerick Persons of the Month award goes to Spotlight Stage School founders

SPOTLIGHT Stage School founders Margaret Hough and Judy O’Connor have been awarded Limerick Persons of the Month for their fruitful careers in Limerick.

After 39 years of inspiring and shaping the lives of young performers, Spotlight Stage School founders Margaret Hough and Judy O'Connor are retiring, marking the end of an incredible era in the arts community in Limerick. 

Under the guidance of Margaret and Judy, Spotlight has had a profound impact in fostering creativity, confidence, and a passion for the performing arts in generations of students.

Margaret said: “We are in business for the last 39 years and for 38 of those years, we have been situated at 97 O’Connell St, in the LPYMA Hall. We would really like to thank the trustees of the LPYMA for providing us with such fantastic facilities for the school and hopefully, it will continue on for years and years to come.”

In the spirit of continuity, Margaret and Judy are excited to announce that Spotlight Stage School will continue its legacy under the leadership of former pupil Sadhbh McCoy.

READ ALSO: Spray painting, sun and abstract performance: Cruinniú na nÓg launches in Limerick

As Margaret and Judy prepare for their retirement, they express deep gratitude to the many parents, students, and staff members who have supported Spotlight throughout the years. 

They said: “It has been an absolute joy to watch generations of young people grow in confidence, creativity, and talent. 

“We are confident that under Sadhbh's leadership, Spotlight will continue to thrive.”

Judy added that for her retirement plans, she has a “few things up her sleeve”. 

“I’m not sure yet what direction my retirement will take me, but it will definitely be something in the creative field!”

Additionally, Sadhbh McCoy said that she is “proud and excited to continue the incredible legacy left by Margaret and Judy at Spotlight”.

“Spotlight has always been a place where young people can build confidence and discover their passion for the arts, just as it has done for me,” Sadhbh said.

“I look forward to leading this wonderful school into a new chapter and continuing its success for many years to come.”

Margaret and Judy will proceed to the Limerick Person of the Year ceremony, where the coveted award will be presented to one of the 12 Person of the Month recipients.

Limerick Person of the Month is sponsored by the Limerick Leader, Southern Media and the Clayton Hotel.