After a whirlwind year representing Ireland on the world stage, New Zealander Keely O’Grady is back on home soil – and stepping into a brand-new role. The six-time New Zealand Irish dancing champion and 2024 Rose of Tralee has swapped her sash for dancing shoes as she joins the cast of A Celtic Christmas, touring New Zealand this November.
It’s a fitting return for someone who has spent the past year embodying both Irish tradition and Kiwi pride on the international stage.
A Year Like No Other
Keely has just wrapped up a life-changing year in Dublin, where she lived as the official 2024 Rose of Tralee – an ambassadorial role that saw her travel across Ireland and beyond.
“I’ve spent the last year attending events, speaking, dancing, and partaking in charity work, all as a representative and ambassador for the festival,” she says. “It’s been the most incredible experience – but A Celtic Christmas marks my return to New Zealand and the start of a new chapter. This is my first professional dancing tour, and I can’t wait to take to the stage.”
A University of Canterbury graduate, Keely completed her Bachelor of Speech and Language Pathology with Honours in 2024 before heading straight to Ireland. “It’s been non-stop,” she laughs, “but I wouldn’t change a thing.”
Falling in Love with Irish Dance
Keely’s love of Irish dancing began the way it does for many little girls – with a VHS tape and a spark of inspiration.
“I was about five or six when my dad, who’s Irish, put on Riverdance for me,” she recalls. “I was hooked! My mum took me to try Irish dancing and ballet classes, and I picked Irish. I loved the power, the grace, the energy.”
That spark grew into a lifelong passion, one that saw her crowned six-time national champion and perform across the country. “I think what keeps me coming back is both the dance itself and the people. The Irish dancing community in New Zealand is so special – it’s like a family.”
The Magic of the Rose of Tralee
When Keely became only the third New Zealander ever to win the Rose of Tralee, she joined a legacy stretching back to 1959.
“People always ask me, ‘So what is the Rose of Tralee?’” she says with a smile. “The easiest way to explain it is – it looks like a beauty pageant, but it’s not about beauty. It’s a celebration of Irish women and Irish heritage around the world.”
Each year, 32 women with Irish roots are chosen to represent their region, from the UAE to the US, Australia to New Zealand. The festival culminates in a week of interviews, parades, performances, and the famous televised finale in Tralee.
“By the end, you’ve made lifelong friends and memories that are impossible to put into words,” Keely says. “It celebrates strong, independent, modern women who are proud of their Irish identity – and I’m so honoured to have been part of it.”
Dancing into the Spotlight
Performing professionally has always been Keely’s dream – one that she’s held onto through the highs and lows of study, travel, and even a global pandemic.
“Irish dancing was never just a hobby for me,” she says. “I always knew I wanted to perform. For a while, life got in the way – COVID, university, then the Rose of Tralee – but I believe if something’s meant to be, it will be. I know little me would be so excited to see me doing this now!”
When choreographer Ceili Moore reached out to invite her to apply for A Celtic Christmas, the timing was perfect. “It felt like everything aligned,” she says. “It’s also special having a few Kiwis in the cast – it really brings it full circle.”
What Audiences Can Expect
Described as “Riverdance meets Christmas magic”, A Celtic Christmas promises a lively mix of storytelling, music, and of course, incredible Irish dance.
“The show beautifully blends energy and precision with live traditional music and heartfelt storytelling,” says Keely. “It’s a cultural experience that weaves together humour, heart, and nostalgia – it really captures the spirit of an Irish Christmas.”
Finding Balance on the Road
Life on tour can be physically and mentally demanding, so Keely takes her wellbeing seriously.
“I recharge by listening to music or catching up with family and friends,” she says. “Physically, I try to stay consistent with recovery, stretching, and good nutrition.”
Before stepping on stage, she centres herself with a practise her mum taught her years ago: visualisation. “I close my eyes and picture myself dancing, how I move, how I feel – it’s the best way to bring calm confidence to the performance.”
Looking Ahead
As for what comes next, Keely’s keeping her options open. “I wish I could tell you!” she laughs. “For now, I’m excited to spend the summer with friends and family after such a big year. I’d love to keep dancing, and I’m also looking forward to starting work as a speech and language therapist.”
Whether she’s performing on stage or helping others find their voice, one thing’s certain – Keely O’Grady’s passion, poise, and sense of purpose will keep her dancing through whatever comes next.
A Celtic Christmas New Zealand Tour dates 10th November – 11th December. Buy tickets HERE.