ShowHub Artist Spotlight: Ciara O’Neill
Vancouver’s music scene thrives on the voices of artists who bring heart, authenticity, and energy to every stage they step on. Ciara O’Neill is one of those rare performers who makes an immediate impression – with powerhouse alto vocals, natural charisma, and an unmistakable confidence that draws audiences in. Whether fronting The O’Neills with her cousin, performing with the Barge Boys, or jumping in with other local acts, she embodies the kind of joy that makes live music unforgettable.
We saw Ciara perform with the Barge Boys at the Khatsahlano Street Fest in July. As she’s returning from summer holidays, we re-connected to learn more about her journey, her roots, and what keeps her inspired.
Meet the Artist
Hi Ciara, it was great to meet you at the Khatsahlano show you did with the Barge Boys. Thanks so much for taking the time to let us get to know you a bit better. Let’s start with the easy stuff. How old are you, and how long have you been singing professionally?
I’m currently 26 and I’ve been singing since I could speak (my lucky parents haha!). I started playing gigs when I was 14 with my dad. From there I started a couple of bands in school and have been gigging ever since.
It’s not often we hear a real alto powerhouse – many singers sound like they’re forcing it when they reach for that lower range, but it’s clear as a bell from you. I was always more comfortable in that range myself (long ago – don’t ask me to sing!). What kind of vocal training do you have?
I started in musical theatre when I was 3, singing in choirs from around the same age. When I was 11 – 18 I had private singing lessons going through grading and exams (it’s not as boring as it sounds – I learned so much and sang genres I never would have ever thought of). I was trained to develop my upper range at that time, but have always been very comfortable in my lower register.
We know you have a duo with your cousin (The O’Neills) and sing with the Barge Boys – any other acts?
The O’Neills and The Barge Boys are the two main acts that I’ve been performing with for the last few years, although I do sometimes sub for other bands in Vancouver. When I head home to the U.K. and Ireland I’m very fortunate that my old band (called Thrown Together) invite me to perform with them, and being from a musical family I’m very lucky that my dad, uncles, aunties, cousins and friends all get together every year to perform together.
We saw the band doing a lot of original tunes. Is the duo mostly original music as well?
Most of the venues The O’Neills play in are filled with people looking for a sing-song and a boogie, so we mainly play covers and have a GREAT time doing it!
Do you have a day job, or are you gigging full time?
Outside of gigging I work for a Live Concert and Entertainment Promoter and Production Company. It’s great to be surrounded by like minded creative and music loving people everyday.
We’ve seen that you play at the local Irish pubs quite often. Do you have any other regular spots you perform?
Absolutely! The O’Neills often play at the Shamrock on English Bay, as well as the Lennox and Donnellan’s on Granville. From time to time you can find us at Foy’s Irish Bar, The Cambie and Malone’s too. We always love playing at new venues and looking for new opportunities. We’ve also been so lucky over the last 3 years to have been asked to play at lots of celebrations and important days in people’s lives too!
I’m so impressed by your absolute confidence in yourself. It’s incredibly rare at any age – let alone so young. Is that something you got from your parents? We met your dad the other day – he seemed like a pretty awesome guy!
Aw thank you so much! Honestly when I’m on the stage it’s hard not to dance and have a great time with the amazing people I’m up there with! But I am very lucky that I was raised in a family of performers who encouraged me to play from a young age, and demonstrated what a great performance looks like. I’m so grateful that my parents were able to make it over to Vancouver this summer, especially to see us perform at Khats and meet so many great people!
How does it feel to have all these fans that come out to support you, waving signs and singing along – knowing every word? We’ve seen videos – that wasn’t an isolated case at Khats!
I have to say it’s very surreal. I’m grateful every time people take the time to come out, make (punny) signs and especially sing along to our tunes. Knowing that people connect with our music and performances, and choose us to party with really is more than I can really put into words. I don’t think it’s ever something I’d take for granted, and I’m just thankful to be part of something that resonates with others (and to continue to do what I love).
On the topic of confidence, this young woman carries herself like a rock star – but without ego or pretence. That’s something people of all ages can look up to and strive for.
It’s a golden balance: when you know exactly who you are, and that who you are is more than enough, there’s no need for bravado, arrogance, or insecurity.
Her fans see that. We see that. And it’s a big part of what makes her shine.