Actor and theater director at the Alloy Theater Company in New York, Maxine Linehan lived in Ireland until the age of 21. The County Down-born daughter of Maureen and Patrick attended the University of London and obtained a bachelor of laws.

Linehan believes being Irish in America is a special thing.

“Being Irish has a uniqueness unlike any other nationality. Here in America, there is a certain reverence attached to our culture, and that speaks to who we are as warm, generous and creative people,” says the talented star.

Linehan believes that the Irish are leaders in the field of arts. “There are so many men and women in the arts who inspire and motivate me, and I hope and dream that I can be an inspiration to others through the work that I produce and perform,” she says.

Linehan believes she only has to look at her own family to see the “extraordinary blend of kindness, confidence, ambition and humility that make the Irish an exceptional race.”

Linehan recently wrapped her one-woman show, “Who Am I? A Tribute to Petula Clark,” at the Laurie Beechman Theater on 42nd Street.

 

Return to Women of Influence