Billie Barry was born in Drumcondra, Dublin, Ireland, one of 15 children.
She later joined the Barry Sisters singing group, which toured Ireland and the UK.
[2] She started the stage school after her husband Paddy was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis.
[3] Billie Barry became a household name in Ireland due to the success the school enjoyed.
Notable pupils include Angeline Ball, Susan McFadden, Brian McFadden, Mikey Graham (of Boyzone), Samantha Mumba, Hilda Fay, Lisa Lambe, Ruth-Anne Cunningham, Devon Murray and Jacinta Whyte.