Lead Dancer Tommy Tonge drops in for a few questions

Thursday, 11 November 2010 10:10

Dublin born Tommy leads the troupe with his own insight into life on the road

Tommy Tonge joined Essence of Ireland in autumn 2010 as the Lead male Dancer and we asked him a few questions about life, dance and the business.

Question: How did you hear about the Essence of Ireland and how did you become involved?

Tommy: I had some friends who were auditioning for the Autumn tour and that's how I heard about it. 

Question: At what age did you start dancing, and when did you realise you wanted it to become your career?

Tommy:  I started dancing at the age of four. It was something I always wanted to do. When I was five I danced on a TV Show in Ireland, it was my first real taste for performing and I've been hooked ever since. I danced all through my childhood and by the time I reached my mid teens I was working professionally as a dancer so when I eventually finished school it was only natural that I would continue to pursue a career in show business. There's no other business like it!

 Question: When you're not working what do you enjoy doing - do you have any hobbies?

Tommy:  When I'm not working I'm usually trying to source other work! That's just the nature of a dancer's life, it's pretty hard to switch off as you have to know where the next job is coming from. But I love spending time with friends and family. Eating out in nice restaurants or just chilling out with good mates. I also enjoy a good book, especially autobiographies, I love reading about other peoples lives. I guess I'm nosey that way. 

 Question: You've travelled extensively in your career; are there any places you loved, or any places you'd still like to visit or are you a simple man who enjoys being at home?

Tommy:  I have been very lucky that I have had the opportunity to travel a lot with my job. When I was eighteen I toured the US with Irelands premier entertainer, Tony Kenny. It was a coast-to-coast tour and we played some amazing theatres in some great cities. Chicago is definately a city i'd love to re-visit. Also having worked on cruise-ships, I have spent a lot of time around the islands of the Caribbean where you can find some of the worlds most beautiful beaches. I have never been to Australia so that's definately on my bucket list! 

 Question: Do you have any favourite music you like listening to & are there any other types of dancing you enjoy as well as Irish?

Tommy:  I love music so I listen to a wide variety of stuff. motown music is definatly my favourite. Although I love Irish dance, I'm a jazz dancer at heart. I love a good lyrical number... Full of soul and expression. 

Question: You probably don't have much time in your busy schedule for TV, but do you have any favourite programs you enjoy watching when you get a chance or do you follow any live competition shows like 'Come Dancing'/'X Factor' or would you prefer to go to the cinema?

Tommy:  I do love watching a bit of TV I have to admit and try to keep up with all the latest soaps when I can. I'm enjoying 'Strictly come dancing' at the moment. The professional dancers on that show are amazing. There at the top of their game and are inspiring to watch. Overall I think its a fantastic show. 

Question: What have been your ups/downs & funny moments during your career and are there any tips you'd give to others who may want to join the entertainments industry?

Tommy:  There are always highs and lows in this profession. You learn to take the rough with the smooth. It's not always easy as you're constantly faced with rejection and you have to be very strong at times to overcome this. But hard work and determination does pay off and it honestly is worth while when you get that thrill of performing to a full house. The only advice I would give to anyone wishing to pursue a career in this industry is to never give up. Take as many classes as you can, keep your eyes open and never stop learning. Its a tough business at times but that just makes the good times all the more great. 

Question: It's obvious you have to have a lot of stamina to be able to cope with touring and performing on a daily basis, so do you have a personal fitness regime?

Tommy: I've been dancing for so long now my body is well used to it. When I'm not working I try and take class when I can. That keeps me fit and on my toes. I've recently started jogging too which is great for stamina. A combination of clean living and good diet helps too... but no-one is perfect!