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ST EDWARD’S CHRONICLE
Tanaka Chitsenga
Where were you beforeTeddies?
At the Dragon School in Oxford.
What House are you in and what are you studying?
I’m in Cowell’s taking the International Baccalaureate. My
Higher Level subjects are Physics, Geography and Drama and
my Standard Level subjects are Maths, English and Spanish.
What extra-curricular activities are you involved in?
I attend Ballet lessons on a weekly basis in preparation for the
Dance Show. I’m also involved with the CCF every Wednesday,
alongside the rugby training programme.
Which school production have you enjoyed most in
your time atTeddies?
My most enjoyable production at Teddies was
Fame - the
Musical
where I played the character Tyrone Jackson. The
acting and dancing experience I gained from the production
was something I truly valued. However, making new friendships
was definitely the highlight of the production.
What is the benefit of havingThe NorthWall on site?
The North Wall is a very valuable facility at Teddies that gives
pupils easy access to the space, equipment and technology
needed to explore their creativity. The North Wall also allows
pupils to be immersed in professional works of theatre and art
which can often be very inspiring.
Best advice you’ve ever been given atTeddies?
Mrs Clark (a former Drama teacher at Teddies) once said to
me in the first few weeks of the Shell year, ‘Just give it a go and
really go for it.’ As vague as it sounds, ‘giving everything a go’ by
trying out new things and signing up for plays is what changed
me from being a shy Shell to a confident Upper Sixth Former.
Best play or production you’ve ever seen anywhere?
The best play I have ever seen was
Things I Know to beTrue
at
the Oxford Playhouse. Its accurate and humorous portrayal of
an average family was deeply relatable. The devastating loss of
a family member was a poignant yet powerful message.
Is there a role you dream of playing?
Playing a lead character in any West End production is
definitely at the top of my bucket list.
Best thing aboutTeddies?
I believe the strong relationship between teachers and pupils
is the best aspect of Teddies. Furthermore, St Edward’s offers
many opportunities for all pupils to achieve academically,
musically or in any of the arts.
Best thing about being at school in Oxford?
The School’s proximity to retail areas such as Summertown
and Cornmarket Street in the city centre is the best advantage.
What do you want to do after School?
After School I want to study Geography at university.
Following my degree, I hope to take a gap year to my home
country of Zimbabwe for work experience.