By IW Observer.co.uk
A local woman’s dream of becoming a professional actor is a step closer after a successful first term at The Royal Central School of Speech and Drama (TRCSSD) in London.
Anna Constable, from Wroxall, travels to London twice a week for a Performance Making course for adults with autism and learning disabilities. Anna has a rare genetic condition called Noonan Syndrome, meaning she has epilepsy and other issues that leave her in chronic pain.
She studied at the IW College, achieving an outstanding merit in ‘Step Up to Performing Arts Level 2’ before applying to The Royal Central. Her talent and enthusiasm saw her selected from more than 100 applicants.
Helen Bryer, course director at TRCSSD, said: “Anna is the first student on this course from the Isle of Wight and makes a huge commitment to travel to class each week! Through this commitment she has also learnt to travel on the underground and her confidence in getting around as a disabled person has grown a huge amount.”
This opportunity is bittersweet for Anna and her family as her father isn’t here to see her follow her dreams. Anna was with him when he died suddenly in 2019, her brave actions led to her being presented with the Asa Singleton Courageous Child Award at the 2019 IW Radio Child of Wight Awards.
Anna’s mum Debbie said: “I am thrilled that she is doing so well. I would also like to thank all those including Wightlink and the IW Council who have helped meet the cost of travel, they have given Anna such an amazing opportunity.”
Anna receives funding from the council to assist with rail fares from Portsmouth to London, but this doesn’t include the London Underground which costs £49 per week and is essential for reducing Anna’s journey time due to her disabilities.
Anyone wishing to support Anna with the cost of travel can make a donation through GoFundMe.
Press Release