THE spotlight shone on nine-year-old Harry Day from Houghton Regis when he won a top award at the Stagecoach Theatre Arts, Children’s Achievement Awards, writes Anne Cox.
The awards were presented by Nigel Lindsay at the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane, London.
They are organised by the nationwide stage school group to recognise, acknowledge and reward young people from all walks of life who have either faced adversity, demonstrated bravery, shown courage, cared for others or proved they are good role models for young people.
The winner of the Silver Award for Achievement was Harry, who was nominated by Wendy Ashman, principal of Stagecoach Leighton Buzzard, where he attends classes.
“Harry has an autistic spectrum disorder and has difficulty staying focused and has to work hard to maintain concentration,” said Wendy.
“When he is distracted he makes a concerted effort to do his best and as a result is totally integrated in class. Harry has a natural flair for drama and I love his zest and enthusiasm for life. At Stagecoach he has learned valuable skills for life.”
Stephanie Manuel, Stagecoach’s co-founder, said: “The winners of these awards are the unsung heroes of today. Stagecoach has been both inspired and humbled by the achievements of these remarkable young people.”
Members of the cast of Shrek the Musical joined this year’s winners at the presentation, which was followed by a special questions and answers session with members of the cast.
Nigel Lindsay, who stars as Shrek and who presented this year’s awards, said: “These young people have displayed enormous courage and endurance. They are all young heroes and deserve special recognition.”
The winners went on to see a performance of the hit West End show.