Caroline Curran has been a bringer of joy to a lot of people in her roles playing Maggie Muff and Big Sally Ann. We always think she lights up the stage whether she’s performing in the Opera House, The Mac or The Lyric. We recently caught up with Caroline to have a chat about her life on stage.
It’s always a pleasure to watch you on stage. What’s your favourite part about acting and being in front of an audience?
I think for me the best part of being in front of a live audience is hearing people laugh and cry. It might sound like a cliché but I really love to make people laugh, maybe cry and generally have a wonderful night out.
I’ve seen you on stage a lot over the years. Do you have a stand out moment or production?
I think one of my standout moments (although there are many if I am honest) was during the first 50 Shades of Red, White and Blue it was my birthday on the last night of the run. And when I was taking my bow the music cut out and over the speakers played “Happy Birthday” and the whole of the Grand Opera House (1000) including my family sang Happy Birthday and Leesa Harker and my mum came on stage with a birthday cake. And a fella who was hired for photos lifted me up into the air. I thought the roof was going to lift off with the cheering. Sheer Magic.
As an actor, writer and producer you have your hands full, and 2025 has been busy! What are your plans for the next 12 months?
So at the end of August I will be starring in Bright Umbrella’s production of “Ulster American” by David Ireland at the Sanctuary Theatre running from the 26th August until the 6th of September. It’s a dark comedy and I think it will show people the darker side I can play.
Then I am writing, starring and producing the adult Christmas show at the Grand Opera House studio called “Deck The Hols!. This my first time producing for the Grand Opera House and I’m very excited and nervous. I’m running from the 4th-31st December. We are all off on holiday for a bit of Christmas craic.
I need to chat to Leesa Harker about Maggie’s Menopause, it’ll be great to see Maggie back on stage next year. How much has the iconic role impacted on your life?
Maggie is back at The Grand Opera House for Maggie’s Menopause and I can’t wait to bring a brand new Maggie out for Belfast. Leesa is so talented and Andrea is brilliant and I can’t wait to get started. Maggie has been such a massive part of my life and I love her with all my heart. Long may it continue.
Thanks for taking the time to chat and thanks for years of laughter and joy!
I just want to thank every single person who has come and supported me all of these years. I cannot thank you enough. I’m forever grateful.
Caroline xo
