A Cullyhanna woman who only picked up a guitar a few years ago could now be set to open on stage for one of the world’s most iconic female country singers, Shania Twain!
While fairly new to guitar, 24-year-old Caitlin Mackin has a long history with music. She grew up listening to her dad’s CDs in his van and after showing a keen interest in music was introduced to piano lessons and musical theatre by her mum, at a young age.
Speaking to Armagh I, the burgeoning star said she had listened to all genres but only one of them really captured her heart… Country!
After taking on a few guitar lessons and learning some songs, Caitlin made the bold decision to showcase her new skills on TikTok.
Much to her surprise, that video amassed over 1 million views and countless new followers!
And with her confidence steadily growing, the young musician continued to post content. Not before long, her talents were spied by local publicans who invited her down to gig.
Said Caitlin: “My first gig was New Year’s Eve 2024 and from then I’ve just been gigging every weekend!”
Unlike the Rocky Road they sing about, one of the highlights of her musical career came in January 2026 when Caitlin was invited to open for Ireland’s pride, The High Kings.
She opened for the Dublin-based folk group in both Donegal and Derry/Londonderry and described the opportunity as a “massive experience”.
“It was probably the biggest crowd I’ve played for in a venue rather than a pub,” said Caitlin. “Everyone was sitting watching and listening to you rather than you being like just background music.”
Some months ago, a few people had sent Caitlin a video of Una Healey of the Late Late Show announcing the ‘Opening Act’ competition to find a rising star to open for a Country artist.
With nothing to lose, Caitlin submitted her application alongside a video of her performing at The High Kings’ concert.
She was then invited to interview via Zoom with the show’s production and soon after was announced as one of five shortlisted candidates.
Then, a big announcement came, one she never expected… and Caitlin says her face told the story!
In a video message aired on the Late Late Show, Shania Twain herself announced the incredible prize.
She said: “I’ll be back performing my headline show in Ireland this summer. I’m so excited to announce that the winner of The Late Late Show Opening Act will be my opening act for my only Irish date in Limerick on July 7.”
Said Caitlin: “I think they got our reactions on camera and my face just dropped. I couldn’t believe it!”
Of the opportunity to open for the GRAMMY award-winning artist, she added: “To be honest I haven’t even thought about it.
“I think I would just be completely speechless. Shania Twain is such an inspiration in the country music industry especially just because there are so few female artists too. Supporting her would just be incredible.”
The search for Ireland’s newest country music star, will air live on Friday April 17 on RTÉ One and RTÉ Player.
That evening each of the five finalists will perform individually before the all important public vote opens.
Once voting closes, one of the five will have had their dreams come true as they are announced live on air as the Opening Act overall winner!
Presenter Patrick Kielty said: “Shania Twain is a true country icon and we’re so excited she’s agreed to give our winner the chance to be her opening act in Thomond Park.
“For any country fan, Shania’s gig this summer will be an absolute highlight and for our winner to walk out on stage and perform will be a proper pinch me moment.”
As well as sharing the stage with Shania Twain, the lucky performer will also win a spot on the annual Late Late Show Country Special later this year.
Continued Caitlin: “It’s crazy but even just being on the show is such a huge thing. You’re on the Late Late Show and that’s massive!”
She also hinted to hoping for a little surprise guest appearance from Shania on the evening, but isn’t counting her chickens on that one.
In a final word, Caitlin said: “Really anyone could win it, but I just hope the support is there for me!”
Shania Twain will play Thomond Park Stadium, Limerick on 7 July 2026.
Don’t forget to tune in this Friday and cast your vote for Caitlin!
