Being on stage and in the spotlight is guaranteed to bring a smile to the face of Bright Young Thing Simone Rossouw, a Year 13 boarder at the Royal Hospital School
Who are you and what do you do?
My name is Simone Rossouw and I am an 18-year-old A Level student at the Royal Hospital School. I have been into performing arts since I was very small and have been part of a dance and performing arts school for 12 years. I am also a big lover of sport and play first-team hockey and netball at school. I also love music and am head chorister for the school chapel choir, as well as being part of chamber choir and big band.
Where do you live and what do you like about it?
I live on the outskirts of Colchester. I really enjoy living here as I like living in the countryside away from the hustle and bustle of the town.
However, during term time I am a boarder at school, so this becomes my home. I really enjoy living with my friends and there is definitely never a dull moment in the boarding house.
Tell us about your family?
Both my parents are from South Africa and my father moved to England for his wrestling career. Now he is working as a private dental surgeon in Colchester and my mother is a travel agent. I have two brothers. My older brother is working in South Africa, in law, and my younger brother is at school with me.
What is the most exciting thing that has happened to you over the past year?
Singing a Barbra Streisand piece with the famous BBC Big Band in early February was by far the pinnacle of my performing years. In front of a crowd of 1,000 people, the piece was conducted by the very successful Barry Forgie and was definitely an amazing experience.
Who are your biggest influences?
My biggest influences have been my two heads of music through my time at school, Peter Crompton and William Saunders. Their sheer enthusiasm and willingness to always push me to do my best has been a great help.
How do you relax?
I enjoy reading a good book when I have the time, but to be honest I thrive off being busy so enjoy living a very busy lifestyle. However, I always make time to relax with my friends and family.
What makes you smile?
For me the best feeling in the world is being on stage, no matter what. Whether it be plays, dance shows or musical performances, being on stage never fails to make me smile.
What is your worst habit?
I think my worst habit is most definitely being a chatterbox. Honestly, I could talk for England.
Tell us something about you that may surprise us?
I fell from a 30ft cliff over the Christmas holidays, but thankfully only broke my hand and injured my jaw and head. A lucky escape!
Where do you see yourself in five years?
I am planning to do a degree and postgraduate masters in environmental geoscience at university, but I hope I will still have the opportunity to perform and will grasp every chance to appear on stage.
