Ten-year-old Isla, who’s been coming along to Little Voices classes in Peterborough for 18 months, really is living her best life, having recently landed the role of Jemima Potts in a local production of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang!
“We could see that Isla had something special when she first came to Little Voices,” Julie Armstrong, our Little Voices Principal in Peterborough said. “Her passion for the performing arts is clear – she just loves it! And I’m glad she was able to put her Little Voices training to good use to help her on her way to
success.”
Isla has already performed in a local production of Fame as part of the ensemble, but Chitty is her first big role, which she won after attending an open audition where she was required to read some lines alongside other characters, as well as sing solo.
Her proud mum, Becky, was able to watch the audition and told us: “It was amazing – even if I did end up in tears after hearing her sing ‘Truly scrumptious’! I knew she was capable, but to hear how professional she sounded just blew me away.”
Our Little Voices principal, Julie, chatted with Isla and Becky about how Little Voices has helped Isla pursue her dreams of performing on stage.
Why did you choose Little Voices for Isla?
Isla was interested in acting & singing, so we were looking for something that would give her tips, as well as the confidence needed to be on stage – or anywhere, really. To have the confidence to go into a room full of people she’d never met before, and perform the way she did, is fantastic!
What advice would you give to other parents looking for activities for their children?
I’d say let them choose, but try and instil them with the confidence to go and try new things.
Isla, what 3 things from your Little Voices lessons do you think helped you with your audition?
- The singing & acting skills I’ve learned
- The confidence boost I get from being in small groups
- And the LAMDA exams definitely helped when it came to holding my nerve!
What are you most looking forward to about playing the role of Jemima?
I’m excited about acting with the adults, as well as the boy who plays my brother, Jeremy – and of course, the flying car!
Congratulations, Isla – we’re all very proud of you!
Chitty Chitty Bang Bang is on during February half term at Stamford Corn Exchange Theatre in Peterborough – break a leg, Isla!
If your child dreams of being on the stage one day, click here and book a free trial lesson so you can experience the Little Voices effect for yourself.