‘During my college career I performed a number of times on the stage at New York University, but I never imagined being part of such a quantum leap.’
Aileen intended to teach music appreciation, wanting to pass along her love of singing and performance. ‘God had different plans, and I’m blessed to have this wonderful opportunity with my three best friends.’
Trained at New York University, where she graduated Suma Cum Laude, Aileen’s singing debut came about during her freshman year when her lilting soprano captivated audiences during NYU’s annual Christmas program.
Longtime friend and producer at Zion’s Peak records, Liam Douglas, worked with Aileen to create the foundation of Sisters in Spirit, a group that combines Christian music performance and dance. The shows quickly won hearts across North America. ‘I believe what resonates for our group, on stage and off, is the fact that we love one another. These are some of the most talented woman I’ve ever known, and Sisters in Spirit opened pathways I never even imagined. I can’t wait to discover what God has planned next!’
Such are just a few of the descriptives critics use to describe the stage mastery and fluid ballet moves Siobhan Douglas brings to each Sisters in Spirit performance. Siobhan’s life has always been steeped in music, although she freely attests to the fact that she loves song and dance, but can’t carry a vocal tune.
Discovering her gift and passion for dance, Siobhan’s parents encouraged her to pursue her dream of performing, which led her to the role of principal dancer for the Westerville Ballet Company as well as owner and lead instructor at the Douglas Dance Academy.
She attended the New York Dance Academy on a full-ride scholarship and her senior year included a showcase at Carnegie Hall which sealed her reputation as an accomplished stage presence who lived to show God’s love, and life, through dance.
However, the seemingly effortless way she combines classic ballet moves with modern technique was far from easy. ‘My training urged me toward embracing one form of dance, not both. I strove to combine the two, and thereby engage audiences with a unique interpretation of our music. The response has been humbling, an honor, and nothing less than God at work.’
That outlook forms the palette from which her performances originate. Kassidy is most often referred to as the magnet of the group. She provides the glue between three distinct and individual performers; her presence blends them into a cohesive unit.
Her interpretation of time-honored Christian classics is described by critics as ‘Lush.’ ‘Transforming.’ ‘Spot-on.’ Her gift is taking classic music and making it her own, all the while remaining true to the original message.
‘Life experience has definitely lent a texture to the road I’ve traveled and brings a deeper level of emotion to the songs I sing. There’s a powerful message to be delivered in the music of our group. I think of it as a tapestry that’s distinct to each individual in our audience, and I’m honored by the opportunity God has given me to be part of bringing that truth to life in the hearts of those who join us for the journey. Without question, Sisters in Spirit is the culmination of every hope and dream I could have as a performer.’
‘There’s raw honesty, and wisdom, to the tenor of Kassidy’s performances,’ says Aileen Brewer. ‘We’re blessed to have a performer of her caliber who uplifts and challenges our group to push for excellence, from both a spiritual and entertainment perspective.’
Maeve Callahan’s professional career launched to critical acclaim during the year-long duration of the off-Broadway drama/musical Love Me Always. A renowned actress and vocalist, Maeve also commanded the stage during her tenure at New York University, where she studied theater arts alongside best friend Aileen Brewer. Maeve starred in numerous productions during her four-years at NYU, but admits, ‘Earning the lead role in Love Me Always was the thrill of a lifetime—until Sisters in Spirit. God’s fingerprints are strewn across this venture, and the freshness of this group is everything I’ve dreamed of.’
Maeve’s polish was recognized immediately, from community talent shows to full-blown theatrical productions like Brigadoon during her early days in Westerville, New York.
Maeve’s vocal prowess and acting chops has won fierce loyalty from fans across North America, and she couldn’t be more grateful for the support. ‘Knowing people respond to our music, and our message, is affirmation of God’s plan for what we’re doing as a group, and I’m so grateful for that blessing!’
