Miracle boy Dylan’s set to make a bang

Apr 17 2008 by Claire Rees, Merthyr Express

YOU could say survival story boy Dylan Jones is preparing to make one of the biggest comebacks in showbiz.

The nine-year-old nearly lost his life moments after he was born, and nine years on, he’s about to wow thousands on the stage of the Wales Millennium Centre.

Ysgol Santes Tydfil pupil Dylan, from Thomastown, has just been chosen as one of the leads in a production of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang at the Wales Millennium Centre.

But, for his parents, it’s hard to imagine, as he arrived into the world in terrifying circumstances.

Dylan’s mother Ann was involved in a serious car crash when she was seven months pregnant and he was born just hours later by emergency caesarean.

His dramatic story was featured on the front page of the Merthyr Express.

“It was a really traumatic time,” said Ann, who is married to David.

“I can’t really remember much about it because I was so shaken from the crash. It is very hazy.”

Dylan’s bowels perforated, as is common in premature children, and he underwent an operation before being sent to a special care baby unit in London.

“It was a very scary time for us,” his mam added.

Now a healthy nine-year-old, Dylan has grown into a confident youngster with a love of drama when he’s not playing football for Penydarren under 10s.

And he is one of three boys who have been chosen to play the part of Jeremy during the eight-week run of the popular musical.

The boys will share the part on a rota basis and will perform in around 20 shows.

Dylan’s parents, who both work as government officers for Merthyr Council, say they are “over the moon”, but also a little nervous for their only child.

Dylan attends Stagecoach stage school every Thursday night and was Chip in Beauty and the Beast last year at the New Theatre and queued for five hours to audition for Chitty Chitty Bang Bang.

Ann said: “I’m so lucky to have Dylan, not only because of the car crash but a month before I found out I was pregnant I was told I would probably never be able to have children.

“Now, I can’t wait to see him on the stage. But you will probably find that I cry throughout the whole performance.”

Chitty Chitty Bang Bang is at the Wales Millennium Centre from July 3 until August 30.

For tickets, call 08700 402000 or go to www.wmc.org.uk