Hugh O'Neill wins RTÉ's Class Act 2008

The son of a former ESB Customer Supply staff member was crowned the winner of RTE's Class Act in the Tivoli Theatre on Sunday, October 12th.

The winner was, 14 year old, Hugh O'Neill, son of Hugh O'Neill, who left ESB Customer Supply on voluntary severance.

Hugh Junior sang and played his way through the audition and televised heat stages of the competition and battled it out with five other acts before being named Ireland's most talented teenager.

The young singer/songwriter performed one of his own songs in the final. Hugh won the Class Act Trophy and a cash prize of €10,000 to help further his performing career. Following his win, Hugh said it was a dream come true.

"It's been such a fantastic experience," he said. "I'm going to put the prize money towards recording equipment and some studio time."

The six acts in the final were whittled down from the 60 who originally auditioned. Judge, Caroline Morahan said, "I think Hugh is the find of this competition. He is a phenomenal musician and has amazing stage presence. I'd go out and buy his album in the shops in the morning".