Alumna Interview with Natasha Fenn, Performer, Dancer & Actor

Please can you briefly describe your current role?

I am a Musical Theatre performer, dancer and actor who has been busy working in these genres. The year has consisted of working in two different musical shows for Warner Brothers in Abu Dhabi as the female lead, as well as spending time in Wales filming and dancing for an episode of Doctor Who. I am currently performing in Darlington Hippodrome’s pantomime Sleeping Beauty as ensemble, which has just received a 5 star review from Theatre and Tonic!

How did Bromley High School help shape your career?

My dance teacher Miss Gibbs, drama teacher Mr Graham, and music teacher Ms Daniel were always very supportive of my career choice. I was lucky enough to take part in two music tours to Prague and New York, as well as, performing in all the dance productions since Year 7. When I reached the Sixth Form, I became part of the choreographic process. I also secured the role of Sharpay in Bromley High School’s production of High School Musical and then the following year performed the role of Nancy in Oliver. These are just a few of the opportunities I was given!

What aspects of Bromley High School did you most enjoy, and find most rewarding?

I was very lucky and enjoyed learning and every aspect of school! Coming to school every day was genuinely so fun for me. However, from Year 7, I found a love for sport at Bromley High School and particularly found a passion for netball. I always enjoyed netball training, matches, and as I got older, I loved coaching the Year 7 pupils netball – it was extremely rewarding to see them progress. I also loved PE A level and learning from Mrs Taylor and Miss Higgins, I think the most rewarding moment was gaining an A* in PE A level as I enjoyed the subject so much.

What is your favourite memory of being at Bromley High School?

This is a really hard question to answer as there are so many! But two memories come to mind. Firstly, the Performing Arts trip to New York when I was in Year 13. It was so surreal to be able to see all the sights whilst performing and doing what I love in one of the best cities in the world! I vividly remember getting a photo by the Broadway sign thinking ‘I will perform here one day!’.  Secondly, my last day at Bromley High School – we had the best day saying goodbye to all our favourite teachers and receiving the ‘Sunny Disposition’ award from Mrs Bird was something I’ll always remember!

What value do you get out of your connections with your fellow alumnae?

I still visit Bromley High School regularly to help out and teach the occasional dance workshop.  More recently, I choreographed a dance for the Sixth Formers as part of the annual dance production, which was a joy to do. I also attended the fireworks display and the alumnae drinks reception beforehand and again this year with my friends and it was so lovely to see lots of teachers and have a big catch up!