Written by Dan, Isla’s father
We have always wanted Isla to have the opportunity to access the same experiences as her peers. She is confident in her abilities and loved to be involved in all aspects of school life. Her love of performing started early when she starred with her best friend in an episode of Mr Tumble, and since then she hasn’t looked back – dancing, acting and singing her way through life!! We knew that there was no way that she was going to miss out on the chance to be in the school play, but we also knew that lengthy rehearsals and the fast paced performances might be a challenge. Fortunately, the drama department didn’t seem concerned at all!
Although her school inclusion wasn’t always quite what we hoped or planned for, her love of performing and the openness of the production team allowed her to take part in many school performances and therefore become part of the wider school community. From Billy Elliot to Mary Poppins to Little Shop of Horrors only COVID stopped her love of performing. When Isla had to stop attending school just prior to the announcement of the first lockdown she cried because she knew she would miss the school play auditions. We quickly received an email from the drama team telling us not to worry as, if the play went ahead, then Isla would absolutely be included.
The school gave her the opportunity to act, sing and dance; made her part of the crew and supported her throughout. There were extra dance rehearsals and videos sent home so she could feel confident on the show day. Her TA helped her with the scenes and the school allowed her a later start after the evening shows. The other students accepted her, they helped her with the words, they kept her spirits up when she was tired and didn’t mind when she wanted to be front and centre! Her teaching assistant even took part in one of the plays so was able to support Isla at all the rehearsals. This was the inclusion we hoped for!
Since then, Isla has continued to follow her passion.
She is taking Performing Arts at college and post COVID she played Young Dorothy in BlueApple’s version of the Wizard of Oz; voiced a character on the popular Action Pack (Netflix) – where she won Best Voice Over Artist – and most recently starred in the new McDonalds summer Advert directed by Michael Gracey (The Greatest Showman).
Catch Isla at 0:16:
Inclusion in the school plays gave her the opportunity to express herself and build confidence, but more importantly she was part of a shared experience and she really felt that she belonged.