What's the Story? It's Orla-mory!

We are absolutely delighted to share the news that Junior 6 pupil Orla M was selected from more than 200 singers to perform as THE solo voice on the refreshed theme song for the brand new series of the iconic BBC children's show, Balamory!

Returning after more than two decades off the air, the show centres on the fictional community of Balamory off the west coast of Scotland, dealing with the residents of the community and their issues - we're sure many a High School parent has enjoyed an early morning in front of the television with their toddlers taking in the stories of Miss Hoolie, Eadie McCredie and PC Plum!

Back in December Orla recorded the iconic song, securing the coveted solo part after "blowing away" the Balamory production team with her audition.

But the story has an extra magical twist - when Orla was selected, the production team were amazed to discover that she actually originates from Tobermory, the colourful Isle of Mull town that inspired the world of Balamory itself.

And the connection doesn't stop there: Orla's father featured several times in the original series, most memorably helping Miss Hoolie with her lifejacket, an occasion that led to a rather memorable wardrobe malfunction involving a long skirt and a groin strap!

Music is truly in Orla's blood. She is the great-granddaughter of Bobby MacLeod, a celebrated Scottish Dance Band leader from Tobermory, and her musical talents are as diverse as they are impressive. She plays piano for fun, performs fiddle with Mull Music Makers during school holidays back 'home', has enjoyed playing violin at Nicola Benedetti sessions in both Edinburgh and Glasgow, and is a member of a local drama group. It's safe to say the stage holds no fears for this talented young performer!

As for Orla herself, she is typically modest about her remarkable achievement:

When Miss Carnall (Head of Junior School Music) told me that I had been selected for the solo part, I couldn't stop smiling for over a week. It is such a happy tune."

Congratulations to Orla on this truly wonderful accomplishment. Her voice will now evoke treasured memories of Balamory for another entire generation of parents, while creating brand new ones for their children.