Maxine Linehan
Internationally recognized Irish American Songstress Maxine Linehan joins us from the snowy slopes of Vermont for this week’s On The Couch. Having performed before sold-out crowds on the most prestigious stages throughout the world – from the iconic Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris to New York’s Lincoln Center, her shows are known for unlocking a love for a musician or band that you didn’t think possible. Maxine has been praised by the New York Times for being “fiercely talented” and the Huffington Post named her a “remarkable talent” – she is not a performer you want to miss.
What do you consider to be your best asset?
My perseverance!
What was your proudest moment?
Just last week, sharing the stage with my 14-year-old daughter for a duet during one of my holiday concerts and singing Back to December by Taylor Swift!
What is your favorite drink?
Barry’s Irish Tea!
What is your favorite food?
At this time of year, peppermint bark and Quality Street Chocolates!
What is your favorite condiment?
Toss up between siracha, white pepper and malt vinegar!
What is your current obsession?
Tennis
If you could give up one of your vices, what would it be?
Hmmmm I’ve slowly eradicated all of them, I think. But I could probably shop less!
What is the one professional accomplishment you long for most?
To play Maureen Folan on Broadway in a revival of The Beauty Queen of Leenane.
What is the one thing you waste too much money on?
Shoes and clothes and home décor!
What is the one activity you waste too much time doing?
Watching funny tennis reels on Instagram!
What do you consider to be the single greatest threat to your health?
Alcohol. So I stopped drinking it!
What’s the single best trait you inherited or learned from your parents?
Resilience.
What’s the single worst trait you inherited or learned from your parents?
Overly protective parenting!
What in the world most thrills you?
Nailing a performance!
What current trend in popular culture most irritates you?
The ruination of the English language.
What was the most embarrassing moment you’ve ever experienced on the job?
Turning up to a concert without underwear for my concert dress and having to send the lovely, local, male assistant back to my hotel room to get my spanx and nipple covers!
What is your favorite place in the world?
My home in Vermont. Turks and Caicos, a close second.
What is the most important trait you seek in a romantic partner?
Kindness
Do you prefer the company of dogs or cats?
Dogs! I don’t like cats and they don’t like me!
What would have to happen to make today the best day of your life?
I’m already having it! But a call from Martin McDonagh inviting me to play Maureen Folan would be the icing on top!
What is your personal motto?
I’ll find a way!