Erin’s ‘Over The Rainbow’ tribute to school and NHS touches hearts

Erin McAleer (11) had been due to play the star role - made famous by Hollywood icon Judy Garland - in DH Christie Primary School’s P7 version of the 1939 hit musical.

But when the coronavirus pandemic forced the Coleraine school to close, the curtain came down on Erin’s dreams of stage stardom.

Erin had been faithfully practising her singing for months, particularly the film’s timeless classic ‘Over The Rainbow’, which won an Academy Award for Best Original Song and became Garland’s signature tune.

Proud mum Gina and Erin’s sister Caitlin (9) were thrilled that she had landed the lead part and couldn’t wait to see her centre stage and under the spotlights.

Erin even had the famous Dorothy gingham dress and red heels ready ­- but it wasn’t to be.

But that didn’t deter thoughtful Erin from posting a farewell video of the song - accompanied by her aunt Kerry Scott on piano and Gina’s cousin Robert Goodman on trumpet - as a tribute to frontline workers, her classmates and teachers on her final day as a P7 pupil.

An accomplished singer, dancer and drama student, Erin is due to attend Coleraine Grammar School in September.

Previewing her video, filmed on Castlerock beach, she says: “With the help of my sister Caitlin, I’d like to sing ‘Over The Rainbow’ as a thank you to all the key workers and medical staff who have helped us during lockdown.

“I’d also like to dedicate this song to all my P7 friends, teachers and staff at DH Christie. Thank you for all the wonderful memories, I will miss you all.”

Mum Gina added: “Erin wanted to do something special for all essential workers, plus the staff and her fellow pupils at DH Christie, so she thought this would be a fitting tribute.

“We are very proud of her and her sister”.

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