Student who lost sight when child gives show-stopping performance (From Wandsworth Guardian)

Student who lost sight when child gives show-stopping performance

4:30pm Sunday 8th July 2012 in News By Alexandra Rucki

A student who lost her sight as a child gave a show-stopping performance as Nancy during her school's production of Oliver.

Hannah Newland, 14, wowed audiences alongside her classmates in show, which was held in The Clapham Grand, St John's Hill, Battersea.

Miss Newland's sight deteriorated from birth and by the time she was six she was virtually blind.

But a successful operation to remove cataracts has meant the year nine pupil is regaining her sight, which has given her the confidence to take up performing.

She said: "This has been the most amazing experience for me. "I love acting and singing and to perform on a professional stage with sound and lighting has really given me the confidence to showcase what I am capable of.

"I can’t believe I have performed at a theatre where past performers have included Charlie Chaplin, Oasis and Brian May." Stephen Holsgrove, executive head of Thames Christian College said: "This is the first time we have done a drama production on this scale and I am immensely proud of all our pupils. "The actors vividly brought to life Dickens’ timeless characters with such talent and enthusiasm. It is amazing to see what these children can achieve at such a young age."

Drama is an important part of school life at Thames Christian College, in Wye Street, Battersea, with students having the option to study for LAMDA acting awards.

Visit thameschristiancollege.org.uk for more information.