A “born and bred” St Albans resident played a crucial role in one of the top Hollywood blockbusters of 2024.
Chantelle Nassari attended Townsend Church of England School and was the first disabled person in the country to take GCSE dance, leading to a change in the syllabus.
She was recently hired as the accessibility coordinator for the highly anticipated film, Wicked.
Chantelle helped to adapt the sets, props and trailers and offered her point of view to ensure smooth practice. She said the whole experience was “surreal”.
Speaking to STALBANSnews, she said: “It wasn’t just about physically adapting the production – it was about making it relatable for a disabled audience.”
From the offset, Chantelle could feel that everyone on set was “devoted” to inclusion.
Chantelle worked closely with Marissa Bode, who plays the protagonist’s sister Nessarose, a wheelchair user. The film adaptation of the popular musical is the first time a disabled person has played the role.
The pair formed a close friendship during filming. Chantelle felt she “took Marissa under [her] wing”, and that the actress has “big things waiting for her”.
Marissa even invited Chantelle to the film’s premiere as her guest.
Chantelle is also committed to improving accessibility closer to home.
She added: “I would like to see roles given to disabled people that aren’t about being disabled.
“I was born and bred here. I feel passionate
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