Biography

Michael was born in Turner’s Cross, Co. Cork. After leaving school he performed for a time with the Montfort Stage Company in Cork before going on to study for a teachers diploma with LAMDA. He appeared in leading roles in a number of Irish productions including such well-loved musicals as Camelot and Mame. He was subsequently awarded a scholarship at the exclusive Stephens College in the United States, graduating with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in theatre arts.
Following his graduation, he worked for a time with the Okoboji Stock theatre in Iowa before returning to London to look for work. In London, he auditioned for two shows, Les Miserables and Anything goes. He was subsequently offered both roles, but chose to accept Les Miserables. This proved to be an inspired choice! Before long he was offered the role of Javert on the First National Tour, performing in Manchester, Edinburgh and Dublin.

He went on to play Javert in the West End and other British venues, before being asked to open the new Australian production in Sydney, Australia.
Since his return from Australia Michael has appeared in the popular TV production The 10th Kingdom and the keenly awaited video production of Andrew Lloyd-Webbers Jesus Christ Superstar. He also performed the lead role in a new concert/musical production called Inkle and Yarico, the story of which was centred around the slave trade. The show opened in Edinburgh and was subsequently performed in the United States, Jamaica and Berlin. He is also working on the production of a new album.

In September this year, Michael opened in the title role of Ken Hills Phantom of the Opera.