Children with additional needs were among the 50 youngsters sharing the stage spotlight in Over The Rainbow at Land Rover Sports and Social Club on Sunday.
The show, starring youngsters aged between three and 18, was the culmination of months of rehearsals for what marks a first musical production of its kind by Born2Sing, an academy which also welcomes those with complex learning needs.
Led by Gemma Mills, a trained specialist in Sounds of Intent, Born2Sing goes beyond traditional performing arts education by offering tailored support, private vocal coaching, audition preparation, GCSE support, and career guidance.
It鈥檚 the challenges she herself has faced as a mother of children with autism and ADHD that have inspired Gemma to provide opportunities for those with special educational needs (SEN) to thrive. Through Born2Sing, she has pioneered an inclusive performing arts space where young people, regardless of ability, can find their voice, gain confidence, and succeed in ways they never thought possible.
Gemma said: 鈥淲e have done many performances before. Open mic nights and showcases are a regular part of Born2Sing, however, we had never done a musical theatre production. With children of mixed ages and abilities, it is fair to say there have been challenging moments but we have made adjustments to be able to create the vision and with an amazing team of teachers working hard together.
鈥淢any of our students have lots of experience performing on stage and do it regularly however, we have many children within Born2Sing who would struggle to perform on stage because of the demand, anxiety and potentially lack of preparation and support. We felt it was time to give all of our students the opportunity to support each other and create something special.
鈥淎lso teaching them patience, commitment and empathy as well as learning valuable life skills. They developed friendships, built confidence they didn鈥檛 realise they had and have had fun along the journey.鈥
Since its launch in 2021, the multi-award-winning academy鈥檚 impact also extends beyond the classroom through both funded and non-funded programs, ensuring that financial barriers do not limit access to the arts. Students are given numerous opportunities to shine, from termly Open Nights and showcases to fundraisers and theatre performances.
Gemma continually supports her local community by offering workshops, private coaching, and music sessions within dance schools, SEN provisions, care homes, and facilities. And all while living with the daily pain of her own chronic health conditions, fibromyalgia and endometriosis.
She said: 鈥淗aving health conditions makes running a business incredibly challenging. From day to day I do not know how I will feel or if I will be in a flare up that will impact my work. But Born2Sing is supported by an amazing team of staff and volunteers who hold everything together, especially when I feel unwell or am unable to attend at times. I am incredibly grateful for them and for all they do.鈥
Last month Born2Sing was officially recognised when Gemma was presented with a Special Recognition Award at Ladies First Inspirational Women Awards, held at Dallas Burston Polo Club IXL Centre in Southam.
She said: 鈥淏orn2Sing allows students of all abilities to feel welcome in an environment where they can find their voice in their own time and at their own pace.
鈥淚 was inspired by my sons, now aged 15 and 12, who have Autism and ADHD to provide a space for others to be able to feel nurtured through music as there is so much evidence to prove how music supports those with special educational needs. I am also inspired by our staff and volunteers, many of whom have lived experience of children with special needs or work with children with additional needs.鈥
Students who needed it were offered extended rehearsal time in familiar space, ahead of the two sold-out shows, each performed for audiences of 170 people on Sunday (July 6th). Lead roles were played by Iona McMurchie (Dorothy); Kelsey Morris (Scarecrow); Kayla Davison (Tin Girl); Liliana Skarzynska (Lion); Carey Mills (Oz); Aimee Firkins (Glinda); Bethany Webb (Wicked Witch) and Georgia Davey (Captain).
A proud Gemma added: 鈥淥ver the Rainbow was so magical. It was a show that truly celebrated diversity and that with Born2Sing we embrace every voice and story and proves that the power of music and the arts breaks down all barriers, we are so proud of all the children!鈥
Zoe Morris, proud mum of Kelsey, said after the show: 鈥淚 never thought as a SEN parent my child would ever be able to take part in something like this. They go above and beyond to meet all children鈥檚 needs and bring out their full potential.鈥
To find out more about Born2Sing visit: born2sing.co.uk