A Big Surprise From Haringey Shed

About 18 months after my book was published, Katie Caryer, who was studying for her Degree in Drama approached me. She had a long association with Haringey Shed an inclusive drama group based in Haringey. Katie explained that Haringey Shed wanted to do a musical based on 3 different Haringey people’s lives. Katie had read my book and had recommended that my story would be good material for the musical.
I was so surprised and delighted. I just couldn’t imagine how my book could be translated into a musical, it was really exciting. I could only wait and see! Katie came to interview me and took some photographs from my book. Being severely disabled herself with cerebral palsy, which affected her speech; she was helped by a very able personal assistant; as well as using her communication aid.
A few months later, I was invited to see the production at the Shaw Theatre in London on a Sunday afternoon. It was called ‘One Life, One Chance’. Written by Jane Karen and Susie McKenna. Directed by Katie Caryer. It was absolutely brilliant. Haringey Shed and the more famous Chicken Shed Theatre both give the same parts to 3 different people so that the children can act in spite of having no speech or are not able to move around the stage. In a marvellous way, they all blend into one character which does not affect one's understanding of the story line.
Rosie who has cerebral palsy and was in a power-chair took my part. She used a communication aid. It was very easy to guess that she was taking my part, she even looked like me. She had the same hairstyle as me at the age of 11. I think that anybody would agree that the most poignant part of the production was when Rosie was helped to stand up at the front of the stage just like the photograph on the front of my book cover. The packed theatre audience clapped and cheered with much gusto while I was fighting back the tears. Even more moving was that Rosie seemed to be looking right at me, I was sitting on the front row and she gave me such a big smile. The production also included many songs, written to relate my story, which was amazing. Warren Willis who was also the Musical Director wrote these wonderful catchy songs. Every time I watch the DVD of this musical, I just can’t believe they’re singing about me!

What strikes me most, is the enjoyment on the faces of all the children taking part. I was particularly fascinated and overjoyed seeing how much Rosie was enjoying being part of it all. In fact I can’t take my eyes off her every time I watch it, which is quite a few times! How I would have like to have been part of Haringey Shed when I was a child, it is such a wonderful thing for children to be in. I shall always be one of their greatest fans. I am so grateful and honoured that they used my book to create this wonderful musical.