Journal
Jemma McKenzie-Brown - Part Two
In the second part of our exclusive chat with Jemma McKenzie-Brown, she tells us what it was like being the lone Brit in the cast, and how she manages to stay looking so fresh.
Why do you think High School Musical is so popular?
High School Musical is all about people from different backgrounds coming together and doing what they love most no matter what people think and I think the film has inspired children all over the world to get into singing and dancing too and find a new way of expressing themselves through performing.
How did you get into acting?
I’ve always wanted to perform since I was a little girl making my parents watch me recite the latest Spice Girls routine! So when I was 10 I was watching a programme on TV about the Sylvia Young Theatre School and begged my parents to let me audition. I won a placement at the school later that year and have acted ever since.
What was it like filming in the US?
It was so much fun but absolutely exhausting! The schedule was tough – filming from morning till night makes a day at school seem like a breeze in comparison! Luckily the rest of the cast and crew had loads of great advice for keeping fit and healthy so I could keep up with the more experienced cast members.
Was the filming hard work physically then?
Yes, especially during dance routines but drinking plenty of water and eating energy foods like potatoes really helps!
What was it like being the only British cast member?
It was really funny actually – I was a bit of a novelty over there. People kept putting on really bad British accents around me and asking me if I knew David Beckham! I did have to adapt to American custom though. Like saying zucchini instead of courgette and eggplant instead of aubergine! It all got very confusing!
Which British food did you miss the most while you were filming in America?
Shepherd’s pie! I love the one they do in my school canteen back home in England and really missed it while I was away! While I was in America, I really missed good old British home cooking.
Was it intimidating working with all those glamorous film stars?
Not intimidating, more like daunting. It was odd seeing them in real life when you’re so used to seeing them on TV and in magazines but when you get chatting to them, you see they’re just normal people like you and me.
What would you recommend for anyone that wants to become an actress/singer/dancer?
Never give up. Sometimes it can be tough, but as long as you just keep on going and stay focused and healthy, you are sure to achieve your goals.
Do you have to follow any special diet to help with dancing/singing?
I just stick to a healthy balanced diet with loads of fruit and veg. I enjoy all different types of food and love trying new dishes!
What are your beauty tips?
Drinking plenty of water and cutting down on fatty foods is great for your skin and eating a balanced diet helps keep your skin, hair and nails looking lovely and healthy.
If you missed it, we posted the first part of our interview with Jemma last Monday. Check it out!