The Team
At Phoenix Theatre Arts, our faculty and staff are dedicated professionals with a passion for the performing arts. With extensive experience on stage, behind the scenes, and in the classroom, our team brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to every class. Get to know the individuals who inspire, mentor, and guide our students every day.
Meet the Founders
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Therese Rooney – Co-Founder / Managing Director
Therese Rooney co-founded Phoenix Theatre Arts with her late partner, Patrick Cooney, in 2017. With a background in Irish dancing and extensive experience teaching across Europe, Therese’s vision has been to create a nurturing environment where young performers can thrive. She has taught in Russia and Finland and has a strong history in theatre, having worked in costume departments for leading Irish productions.
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Patrick Cooney (1959 - 2022) – Co-Founder
Patrick Cooney was instrumental in the founding and daily operations of Phoenix Theatre Arts. His commitment to the arts and the students at Phoenix continues to inspire the school’s mission today. Patrick is fondly remembered by all who knew him.
Our Faculty
Head of Dance I Performance Development I Dancing for Camera
Alex O'Neill
Alex O’Neill has a distinguished career spanning film, television, dance, and acting. As Head of Dance at Phoenix, Alex brings a dynamic approach to teaching, focusing on performance excellence and technical precision.
Principal / Ballet Teacher
Emma Aithal
Emma Hayward has trained extensively in ballet and musical theatre, including stints in Spain and St. Petersburg. She graduated with distinction from Monica Loughman Elite Ballet’s teacher training program and is dedicated to guiding students to reach their full potential.
Head of Drama
Rory Hughes
Originally from Pittsburgh, Rory Hughes has a rich background in musical theatre, having trained at Syracuse University. He brings his extensive experience in acting, singing, and dance to Phoenix’s drama department.
English Drama
Barry John Kinsella
Barry graduated from The Lir Academy and also holds a BA in English from Trinity College and a PGCE teaching qualification from the University of Bath. He combines his academic background with his success on stage to inspire and educate students.
Dance Science I MT Jazz I Tap I Audition Technique
Labhaoise McHugh
A Phoenix graduate, Labhaoise continued her training at Brighton Academy in the UK and has already secured performing contracts. She teaches tap, jazz, and audition techniques, helping students to build confidence and stand out.
Jazz
Tarik Shebani
Tarik Shebani is a seasoned jazz performer and instructor with a dynamic background in theatre, television, and film. He trained at Performers College in London and has since established himself as a versatile performer across multiple platforms. Tarik’s theatre credits include high-profile productions such as RTE’s Toy Show the Musical, Grease, West Side Story, and The Wizard of Oz. His television appearances span popular shows like Vikings, Penny Dreadful, and The Tudors, showcasing his talent in both dance and acting.
Tarik’s film work includes roles in Disney's Disenchanted, The Last Duel, and the Bollywood film Ek Tha Tiger. Beyond the stage and screen, Tarik has performed at prestigious events, including Eurovision and various international tours. As an instructor, Tarik brings his extensive industry experience to the classroom, focusing on technical skill, performance quality, and personal expression. He inspires students to push their limits and explore the full range of their artistic potential.
ACRO
Elaine Roche
Elaine brings a wealth of experience to Phoenix, guiding students in acrobatics and movement. Her teaching emphasizes safety, technique, and performance quality.
Commercial Heels
Amy Whearity
Amy is a 24-year-old professional dancer from North Dublin, actively performing since 2017. She has trained with renowned groups like Fly Dance Company (Kerrie Milne), Motus The Company (Diana Matos), and Phoenix Dance College. Amy specializes in commercial dance, heels, and hip-hop choreography, with notable credits including performing with Jazzy on the 2024 festival tour, Chris Lee’s ‘Have a Nice Weekend’ tour (2023/2024), and The Jungle Book pantomime at the Gaiety Theatre (2022-2023).
She has also represented Ireland at Eurovision 2022, performed as a professional dancer on The Big Deal (2021), and danced at the MTV EMAs 2018 with Bebe Rexha and Jack & Jack. Amy’s international experience includes performing at the New Year’s Eve show in Macau, China, for Chris Lee. Recently, she has expanded into teaching open heels classes in Ireland and the UK. Amy is thrilled to join the faculty at Phoenix Performing Arts College and share her passion and expertise with students.
REGULAR GUEST TEACHERS
Clare Ivory
Clare trained at The College of Dance in Dublin and Performers College in London. With experience in theatre, TV, and cruise ship performances, Clare regularly returns to Phoenix to share her expertise with students.
David O’Reilly
David O'Reilly is an accomplished dancer, choreographer, and instructor with a vibrant career spanning stage and screen. Trained at CPA Studios, David has worked with leading industry professionals and performed in numerous productions across the UK and internationally. Known for his dynamic style and engaging teaching methods, David has contributed his expertise to various prestigious performing arts institutions and brings a wealth of experience to his students at Phoenix Theatre Arts. His passion for musical theatre jazz and dedication to nurturing the next generation of performers make him a valued member of our faculty.
Paul Tyrell
Bio coming soon…
