Rhubarb October 2022

West Side Story (1976)

Celtic Merchant in Britannia An inter view with simon taylor (SCR, 1969-1985) by President David Smart (Field House, 1968-1972)

INTERVIEW

S imon Taylor is a talented actor and director, who taught at St Edward’s from 1969 to 1985, with an exchange year and two fur ther years at Deerfield Academy, USA. Next, he taught for three years at Cranleigh; then, for 23 years atWinchester. He lives in London near Tower Bridge and is fully involved in theatre and film, as well as serving as a Kensington Gardens tour guide.

What brought you to Teddies in 1969?

for a term. Once, I had to address the House about a theft. Thankfully, when I suggested we'd all be suspicious of one another, unless the person responsible owned up, he returned the money the next morning. Sadly, my evening commitment to theatre ruled out subsequent opportunities to run a House.

I was mid-auditions for the RSC, when Oxford Careers invited me to fill in for a term in the St Edward’s English department.When I received a re-call from the RSC, for a spear- carrying contract, I realised I wanted to be a teacher, turned the chance down and stayed at Teddies for sixteen happy years, running English and Drama, and coaching Rugby and Cricket.

What were the highlights of your career at the School?

The SCR was a special place, from chewing over the day's rugby scores with Joe McPartlin to Pat Brims eating haggis for supper

What were the most significant changes you witnessed?

New Hall productions, an unbeaten Colts rugby season, keeping wicket for Corfe SCR XI and reaching the final of the Oxfordshire 20-over competition, English A Level results – but, above all, the friendships, affection, camaraderie and support of colleagues and pupils.The SCR was a special place, from chewing over the day's rugby scores with Joe McPartlin to Pat Brims eating haggis for supper and saying "It's inedible but I like it”.

The introduction of girls into the Sixth Form was, perhaps, the biggest change. I remember the girls inspiring the boys in class, rather than clamming them up, as friendliness, respect and good-natured banter quickly prevailed.The appointment of more women certainly enriched the SCR.There was, also, a strengthening of the balance between sport and the arts, and an increasing stream of pupils wanting to act.

I never heard Pat say a harsh word about anyone.

Which were the most memorable plays you produced and directed at Teddies?

What was boarding life like when you were a House Tutor in Field House?

Hard to choose! Special early shows were A Man For All Seasons and Macbeth , with Teddy Kempner (Segar’s, 1970 1973), who announced on his first day that he wanted to be an actor – and he is, to this day. Stepping in for a boy as King Lear was an honour and included an out-of-body experience when I looked down at myself talking, from the lighting grid above. Other highlights were New Hall's inaugural production of West Side Story (1976), which took two

Always interesting and fulfilling, and I owe a lot to Stuart Pether (SCR, 1946-1977) and Myles Arkell (SCR, 1955-1990). Pastoral care is such a crucial part of boarding life, and there were always boys in need of guidance or moral support. I have warm memories of a friendly, informal atmosphere and the fun we all had.When Myles went to Canada to see his daughter, Claire, I took over Field House

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