Róise Mhic Ghrianna

Róise Mhic Ghrianna, known primarily as Róise Rua (13 March 1879 – 6 April 1964) was a traditional Irish-language singer and storyteller.

Early life and family Róise Mhic Ghrianna was born Róise Ní Cholla in Sheskinarone, near Dungloe, County Donegal on 13 March 1879. She was one of five children of Tomas Ó Colla, farmer, and his wife, Maighréad. Maighréad's father was Seán Hiúdaí Mac an Bhaird, who was a noted musician. Mhic Ghrianna's father died when she was four years old. Her mother married Antain Ó Gallchóir two years later, and the family moved to his home on Arranmore. Antain Ó Gallchóir was a butcher and also known as the last great storyteller on the island. The island was Irish-speaking, but her schooling was through English at Leabgarrow school. From age 9, Mhic Ghrianna spent every spring on Inishkeeragh, harvesting kelp and doing housework. After she left school, she worked in The Laggan, in Glenmornan, County Tyrone and later on the banks of Lough Swilly for three years all together. Following this she travelled between Ireland and Scotland picking potatoes. .

An annual music, singing and dance festival in her honour, Féile Róise Rua, has been held on Arranmore since 2019, and has been featured on RTÉ's Other Voices

In 2025, Mhic Ghrianna was inducted into the RTÉ Radio 1 Folk Awards Hall of Fame.