Lisa Lambe is a critically-acclaimed Irish vocalist and actor. She is currently on stage in Dublin’s Abbey Theatre for The Unmanageable Sisters, a new adaptation by Deirdre Kinehan, directed by Graham McLaren. She takes The Irish Post's 10 minutes with challenge...
What are you up to right now?
This year I am in Ireland’s National Theatre - The Abbey Theatre doing a new play The Unmanageable Sisters - 15 women on stage - a little bit of Abbey history.
Who are your heroes?
My parents, Joni Mitchell, Rosaleen Linehan, Paul Howard.
What’s been the best decade of your life so far and why?
This past decade. Since 2014 I have recorded and launched my first album and my music has really been evolving. I have carved real time for my music and given it a spotlight and development time alongside my acting. Both of them are equally important in my life as an artist and they really enhance each other. I’ve signed a record deal very recently in the US so I’m really excited for all that is to come.
What book influenced you most?
Perfume by Patrick Süskind - scent is everything - transporting , evocative. This book is a bible...the emotional meaning scents may have.
Which local star in any field should the world outside Ireland know about?
Simon Morgan and The Moorings. Their amazing project on reawakening the songs of the great Irish bard Thomas Moore - the way he himself would have wanted them to be made, sung and performed. The real deal. Check out themooringsmusic.com
If you could change one thing in your life, what would it be?
To be away from my iPhone a lot more than I am. I rely on it hugely for work and travel. I would like to be less attached to it. I am trying!
What do you believe in?
Digging deep into yourself and finding your expression, your truth, kindness, expression, love, embracing a moment - all the moments. Taking time. Slowing down.
Can you recommend an interesting website?
cianmcloughlin.com
What is your favourite place in Ireland?
The Burren, Co. Clare.
What Irish record sends a shiver down your spine?
Paul Brady; The Missing Liberty Tapes (1978)
What is the best lesson life has taught you?
To be kind. The only thing that’s lasting in life is love.
What would you recommend as the perfect Irish film?
The Snapper - being one of my all time favourite Irish films starring the brilliant Pat Laffan and the fantastic Tina Kelleher, who I am delighted to be working with currently in the Abbey Theatre.
Where do you live and what are the best and worst things about that place?
I live by the sea in Dublin. Best thing about it are swims in the 40 foot in summer followed by a Teddy’s ice-cream and the worst....I guess something like commuting in traffic into the city in bad weather - it’s a slow, slow commute in the car.
What trait do others criticise you for?
I clean my house too much.
On what occasion is it OK to lie?
As an actress - we become someone else all the time. This is my great transformative time. To think and become someone else under the magic of theatre.
What do you consider the greatest work of art?
Jack B Yeats' About to Write a Letter
What is your ultimate guilty pleasure?
Perfume and Cadbury’s creme eggs!
Who is the love of your life?
My husband, my family, the theatre and music are my greatest loves.
See More: 10 Minutes With..., Lisa Lambe, Music
