‘We take our labels aside and focus on what we can do’: London-based all abilities musical theatre group entertains in the face of adversity

CTV London’s Bryan Bicknell with a musical theatre group that’s all inclusive.

From inside a north London church, the sounds of practice, perseverance and pure joy.

It’s Dreams Come True Music Studio rehearsing for an upcoming performance.

“I saw a lot of people were in it that had disabilities, and I have a disability and I wanted to join it. We’re all friendly, we’re all friends and we all encourage each other,” said Linsay McInroy, a performer with the group.

She’s one of about 60 people from the London area who make up the inclusive, all ages, all abilities non-faith based unified musical theatre group.

Dreams Come True Music Studio was founded in 2018 by Allison O’Connor and her son, Cameron.

They couldn’t find a welcoming stage, so they made their own, said O’Connor.

“My son Cameron, who plays the role of Sven, we were surrounded by music all our lives and heavily involved in many groups, and I wanted that for him. But I couldn’t find a place where he was included or accepted. We were actually turned away from some programs. And I thought, ‘that’s not right.’ And so it fills my heart with pride knowing that we have a space where everyone can do their magic on stage,” she explained.

What’s unique about the group is that there are no auditions, and everyone is welcome.

Also among the players, are Jeremy Davey and his mother Joni Davey.

Joni said her son had been shut out of musical productions when he attended school, but not any more.

“It’s amazing because he’s making friends. He didn’t have friends, and now he has friends. He’s out of school, and he didn’t have a program. And he loved dressing up and doing drama. So this was perfect thing to do,” said Joni.

The group rehearses weekly.

On this day they were working on a production of Frozen Junior. One of the main characters, Elsa, is played by three different actors.

“Our parts are chosen for us based on what’s going to be best for us. Nobody’s competitive with each other. We’re all a team and a family, and we celebrate each other’s successes,” explained Meriel Reed, who plays Elsa.

“It’s just so supportive. And I like that I finally found a place where you can be yourself and be confident,” said Sophie Tompkins, who plays middle Elsa.

“I like it, it’s very nice and good,” added Mailee Gow, who plays young Elsa.

Dreams Come True typically runs three shows per year, said O’Connor.

It’s financed through fundraising and grants. Siloam United Church on Fanshawe Park Road in London donates the space for rehearsal and performances.

“Many of us have been told throughout our lives ‘you can’t do this.’ We take our labels aside and we focus on what we can do. And I expect them to do what they can do, and they can do it, as a team,” said O’Connor.

To learn more about Dreams Come True, check out its website.