From dreamer to performer: Youngster shines in Olivia Twist musical

For many young aspiring actors, the journey from dreaming of the spotlight to stepping onto the stage can be both exhilarating and challenging.

For Leane Wolmarans (11), however, that dream became a vibrant reality when she was cast in the recent theatre musical Olivia Twist at the Ken Gampu Theatre.

The Grade Six learner from Laerskool PAM Brink describes her dream of performing on stage as a moment of overwhelming joy and fulfilment.

“I don’t even know how to put it into words. In one word, it was ‘amazing’,” Leane said.

Reflecting on the moment she was cast, Leane recalls, “I was hyped. It was so cool. I was very proud my hard work finally paid off.”

Leane expressed that her first experience of stepping onto the stage for a rehearsal was a blend of nervousness and awe.

“I was nervous because I didn’t know anyone, but as the weeks went by, we became family. The first tech rehearsal in the theatre was overwhelming, but seeing the production come alive was incredible.”

She identifies the hardest part of preparing for her role as learning all the songs and choreography.

“Hard work is how you overcome it,” she explains.

Leane said one of her favourite scenes involved a sneaky role in the Olivia Twist and Artful Dodger sequence.

“When I snatched Olivia Twist’s bag, I got to do some sneaky acting, and I loved it,” she said.

Throughout her journey, several key figures have inspired and guided Leane. She credits the directors Ashleigh and Michael Stols, as well as Fagin, as her biggest inspirations.

“Michael helped me so much with my singing, Fagin ignited a theatre flame in me, and Ashleigh became my theatre mom, always there with inspiring words.”

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Among the many memorable moments of her rehearsal and performance experiences, a few stand out vividly, like her first day of rehearsals.

“Meeting everyone was unforgettable, and practising on the aerial hoops during rehearsals was a highlight for me,” she noted.

Although managing the demands of rehearsals alongside her school life, Leane cited she had to work extra hard to balance it out.

“I worked hard during the week at school, and when Saturday came for rehearsal, it felt like a break from everything. Rehearsals were a chance to chill but still work hard,” she said.

For other young individuals dreaming of performing in a theatre musical, Leane shares advice: “Just go for it. If it’s your dream, work for it. Don’t be scared. Never let fear hold you back.” Leane’s future aspirations seem to be clear, remarking that she wants to study theatre after school while she continues to audition in future musical plays.

“I believe one day I will play one of the lead roles. Until that day, I will keep working, dancing, singing, and acting. This is what I love, and I believe it is a calling and talent God gave me.”

Her mother, Maritza, expressed pride in her daughter’s achievements.

“Giving up our weekends to drive her to rehearsals was exhausting, but seeing her on stage on opening night made everything worth it,” Maritza said.

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