12-Year-Old Type 1 Diabetic Cast as Voice of Cottontail in New Production of Adventures of Peter Rabbit
Chloe Mandall-Davis, a 12-year-old girl living with Type 1 Diabetes, has been cast as the voice of Cottontail in a new production of the beloved classic, Adventures of Peter Rabbit. Despite her young age and living with diabetes, Chloe has shown a passion and dedication for acting, and her talent has not gone unnoticed.
The production’s director, Paul Adams, was keen to give her an opportunity to start following her dreams and offered her the role of Cottontail. Adams said, “I saw Chloe show a real passion for acting and a commitment to doing the work required in her acting classes last year. She just started high school but there are no acting opportunities for her in the first couple of years, so I wanted to give her a chance to keep pursuing her passion.”
Adventures of Peter Rabbit is a new adaptation of the Beatrix Potter’s classic tales written by Paul Adams. The production was originally slated for 2019, but was postponed until 2020 due to unforeseen circumstances, and then postponed again due to the COVID-19 pandemic. “I’m excited to finally get this show on stage,” said Adams. “Cottontail is written as a fifth voice that would usually be pre-recorded or played by one of the other actors, but I saw an opportunity for Chloe to take on the role for our Brisbane season.”
Chloe is thrilled to be in her first theatre production. She loves the experience of working with talented and experienced actors. “I’m so grateful for this opportunity,” said Chloe. “I’m very excited to be in my first theatre role, and I love working with all the actors. They’re all so talented and funny.”
In addition to her theatre and school commitments, Chloe has a podcast where she discusses living with diabetes and raises awareness about the condition. “Even though I have Type 1 Diabetes, I don’t let it stop me from doing what I love. I hope I can inspire others to never give up on their dreams,” she said.
“Having Chloe in the room is an amazing opportunity for us as creatives,” said Adams. “She’s only 12, but we’ve already learned a lot from her about living with diabetes, and we’re all learning how to manage it in a rehearsal room.” Adams also explained the role is just voicework unless they can find someone to sponsor Chloe in the role.
“As a last-minute decision to give Chloe an opportunity, we didn’t have a budget for a costume for Cottontail. If we can find someone willing to sponsor her in the role, we will be able to make Cottontail a visible character, giving Chloe the chance to be seen as well as heard. I would love that for her.”
Adventures of Peter Rabbit is set to premiere at the Ron Hurley Theatre in Seven Hills from the 4-8 April 2023.
The season is offering other accessible options as well. The two shows performed on April 7th will be performed as Relaxed Performances with reduced volume and lighting effects, and Companion Card holders will also be able to see the show for free when accompanying a client to any performance.
For more information about Chloe Mandall-Davis and the Adventures of Peter Rabbit, please contact Paul Adams via admin@smallcrownproductions.com.au.
Proudly supported by:
The Creative Sparks Grant Program is an initiative of Brisbane City Council in partnership with the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland
