Tuesday, 12th March 2024
Aaliyah Edwards is a 14-year-old drama enthusiast, who has thrived in the theatrical world for 5 years. She describes drama as a “place for me to escape”. Aaliyah told us that her upbringing was rather hard; “when I was younger, I got taken away from my parents at 3 months old, which was when my lovely grandparents stepped in and adopted me. In primary school I used to get bullied for my skin colour (as it was darker than others), my race (as I am half English and half Pakistani) and living with my grandparents (as people thought they were either too old or that they had different skin). This not only hurt me emotionally but physically and mentally too. Drama was a way to escape my feelings and forget about it all. Drama is a place to be happy and live the way you want to.”
This summer, Aaliyah has been offered a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to perform at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival for all to see, hear and enjoy her performance. In order to live out her dream, she is eagerly raising funds to get her to the Fringe Festival. Over 2 sessions, Aaliyah will be challenging herself to swim 1 mile at Pendle Wavelengths as part of her fundraising. We are inspired by Aaliyah’s sheer determination to follow her dreams. Join us in sharing her story and keep an eye out for this shining star in years to come!
For anyone who would like to donate, please ask at Pendle Wavelengths reception where you will be able to sponsor Aaliyah. She is immensely grateful for any support.