From Hollywood to Potters Bar: Barbie movie dancer to open performing arts school

Unless you’ve been living under a rock, chances are you will be very familiar with the hit movie Barbie, directed by Greta Gerwig. Alongside Margot Robbie, Ryan Gosling and Dua Lipa, was Michael French, Principal of Razzamataz Barnet. Michael has been part of the successful Dragons’ Den backed network for twelve years and is getting set to launch his second school in Potters Bar.

• Tell us about Barbie

I got a call from an agent that I hadn’t heard from in a while and my initial thought was that it was going to be some sort of animation. The original part was for a Ken type character but I laughed and explained that I was in my 40s so that was probably not right for me. The agent then got back to me with another part, as a Mattel Executive and they were looking for men who could dance in a Gene Kelly style. I’m an experienced tap dancer but hadn’t been seriously auditioning for a long time so I honestly didn’t think I stood a chance. I got down to the final audition that was held at the Warner Bros. studio and in walked Greta Gerwig, which was a big surprise. It was incredible when I was told I had the part and it really has been a career high with so many of our students loving seeing me in the role.

Picture by permission of Warner Bros Pictures

•  Hear from Michael

“We will be bringing the same high level of performing arts education to Potters Bar, together with our supportive family environment. In Barnet, is has been wonderful to discover new talent such as Tamara Smart who has been incredibly successful as a professional actress starring in Netflix's "A Babysitter's Guide to Monster Hunting" and Disney's "Artemis Fowl", as well as BBC’s TV show "The Worst Witch". It would be amazing to uncover more gems in Potters Bar. Ultimately though I would love for more young people to benefit from the incredible life skills that come from participating in performing arts. Whether that is building confidence, growing resilience or learning about teamwork, there are so many hidden benefits that can be gained.”

•  Find out more

All local children and young people are encouraged to try the free taster session on Thursday 19^th September at Mount Grace School Potters Bar, offering classes in dance, acting and singing and covering a wide range of genres from classic West End and Broadway musical theatre through to the commercial elements of street dance, pop singing and screen acting.

• Join our school

Contact us today to secure your child’s free taster session on Thursday 19^th September. Classes are held every Saturday during term time at Mount Grace School. There is also an incredible 50% sibling discount. Find out more www.pottersbar.razzamataz.co.uk or contact Michael on pottersbar@razzamataz.co.uk or 07788 592171