The Chronicle no. 672

22 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.