Scholarship Winner's Passion for History and Theatre

8 May 2013

A Passion For History and Theatre Combines Uniquely For Scholarship Winner

Waikato university history student Ryan Wood’s love for history has secured him the prestigious Michael Caiger Memorial Scholarship, worth $5,000.

However, it is Ryan’s combined passion for history and talent for theatre that has culminated uniquely seeing him perform in Carving in Ice’s take on Alan Bennett’s famous play, The History Boys.

“What I love in general about theatre is that it gives you the chance to be someone else for a while.”

Despite this, Ryan laughs at the fact he is essentially playing a character that parallels himself. “I’m portraying a character who in many ways is very similar to me on the surface.”

He will be performing the role of Crowther, a history student who acts as a hobby – a parallel to Ryan in real life.

The History Boys Director and Theatre Studies senior lecturer Gaye Poole says Ryan is a thoughtful and serious person to have in a rehearsal room.

“During rehearsals he frequently has insightful questions or observations to make, that's the kind of engagement I'm sure he brings to his history studies as well.”

To apply for the scholarship, Ryan had to demonstrate his commitment to and vision for the field of history.

“I have a particular interest in New Zealand history and would like to see this become more accessible and prevalent in schools and to try and capture students’ imaginations.”

“I was introduced to a different side of History at the age of ten when I discovered Horrible Histories by Terry Deary, and that’s where I developed a passion for the subject.”

The book series is designed to engage children in history by presenting the unusual, gory, or unpleasant aspects in a tongue-in-cheek manner instead of the formal type of lesson that is more common in schools.

The Memorial Scholarship was established in recognition of the high regard in which academic
Education was held by Michael Caiger, to provide financial assistance to students who demonstrate academic potential to further their studies.

Of the connection between history and theatre beyond the play, Ryan says that both have the storytelling theme in common and the ability to walk in someone else’s shoes.

The play runs opens on August 30 and runs through to September 7. For more info, please visit: www.carvinginice.co.nz

Ryan Wood (second from left) rehearsing with his History Boys cast.

ENDS

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