Burn victim Sophie Delezio takes up acting role in Little Mermaid

VIDEO: Sophie Delezio has continued to defy the odds after she suffered third-degree burns in 2003 when a car crashed into her kindergarten. Now she is set to act in a major stage production.

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SHE was thrust into the public eye through no choice of her own but now Sophie Delezio is taking to the stage of her own volition.

The 15-year-old Balgowlah resident will be appearing in the forthcoming Stage Artz production of The Little Mermaid.

“I came home after the first rehearsals and said ‘mum, I can dance’,” she said.

She admitted dancing was not easy on prosthetic limbs, but said she could do the steps.

“I never thought I’d be able to anything that physical,” she said.

“I’ve loved this experience so much, I hope theatre is in my future.”

Sophie Delezio (middle), Rhys Evans (left) and Annelise Hall (right), during rehearsal in Stage Artz production of Disney's The Little Mermaid. Picture: Troy Snook

In 2003 Sophie suffered third-degree burns to 85 per cent of her body when a car crashed into The Roundhouse kindergarten, in Fairlight, and burst into flames.

She and her classmates were sleeping at the time. Sophie was 2-years-old and one of two children critically injured.

She was rushed to The Children’s Hospital at Westmead and underwent multiple lifesaving operations.

Sophie Delezio surfing during the Bungaloe Ave Christmas street party.

Burns victim Sophie Delezio with friends during the Acceptance Day March, to celebrate difference and diversity in our community, through the streets of Sydney’s CBD.

Then, in 2006, she was nearly in a fatal car accident, hit by a motor vehicle on a pedestrian crossing, while being pushed in a stroller by her nanny.

Thirteen years after the Roundhouse tragedy, and having been an audience member at numerous Stage Artz shows, the Oxford Falls Grammar student is now treading the boards.

Sophie Delezio pictured at Sydney International Regatta Centre in Western Sydney.

“One of my best friends took me to drama school about a year ago but I had no idea it was the same company,” she said.

“I have enjoyed myself so much and have made a lot of new friends — it has become a huge part of my life.”

In The Little Mermaid Sophie will be playing the role of one of Scuttle’s friends.

Fittingly, for the past 11 years, Stage Artz has been a major supporter of the Children’s Hospital at Westmead, presenting an annual show and raising more than $189,000.

The Roundhouse Childcare Centre in Balgowlah, where Sophie Delezio was injured after a burning car crashed through a gate at the centre. Picture: Braden Fastier

“So many people give up their time, volunteering, for these shows,” Sophie said. “And it’s for an amazing cause — for my hospital.”

Director Sam Neaves said this year’s cast was remarkable. “They’re the best I’ve worked with yet,” she said. “The special effects are simply brilliant.”

Other shows staged by the company include Oliver, Alice the Musical, Cat in a Hat, and Chitty Chitty Bang Bang.

The Little Mermaid is playing at Glen Street Theatre, opening tomorrow and finishing October 1.

For tickets call Glen Street box office 9975 1455.