So what’s your question?
Grace McIllroy (11) of Durban North is playing the part of a Squirrel in KickstArt’s production of Winnie the Pooh at the Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre.
DURBAN NORTH actress Grace McIllroy will be performing with the professional production house, KickstArt, in Winnie the Pooh. The Umhlanga College pupil is no stranger to the stage though, having played the role of Molly in Annie, with her mother, Lisa Bobbert playing Miss Hannigan, the orphanages cruel supervisor. The Grade 5 pupil tells us that she hates being forced to go to bed early. The classic tales of Winnie the Pooh takes place from 30 June to 17 July.
What things don’t you like doing, name two.
I don’t like eating vegetables – I think I’m allergic to them.
I don’t like going to bed early – all my siblings are older than me and get to go to bed later and I don’t like it because I feel like I’m missing out.
Tell us about a time when things didn’t go the way you wanted?
There are so many times. I was very disappointed when I didn’t get the part of Brigitta in the Sound of Music – especially because a lot of my friends got parts – but I know that it’s all a part of show business.
What do you think about when you are alone waiting in the car?
I think about different things like what I want to do on the weekend and what I would like to do for my birthday party and stuff like that.
What’s your strongest memory of your childhood so far?
I loved being a part of the production of Annie, I was the youngest in the cast and played the part of Molly, the smallest orphan, it was so much fun. I knew that I wanted to do lots more shows after that.
What do you dislike about South Africa?
Jacob Zuma – I don’t think he cares too much about our country – he doesn’t seem to be a good leader.
What makes you angry?
I get angry when I can’t do something right – it’s really frustrating.
Besides school, what are you most passionate about?
Acting, singing, dancing and rhythmic gymnastics.
Name one misconception you think people have about you?
I think people sometimes think that I have a big head and think that I’m just the best.
Some advice to people who want to follow your path; what are three things you should never do?
Never take drugs to make you feel better about your life – drugs will destroy you. Always do your best and don’t give up – things won’t always go your your way but if you keep trying you will succeed in the long run. Be careful who you chose as friends especially on social media – there can be lots of bullying and never accept strangers.
What do you envision yourself doing when you turn 80?
Hopefully I will be a good granny to all my grandchildren and I will always help them and make them cookies.
