In the run up to the Junior Production of We Will Rock You, we had A Conversation With... Mr Miller, who joined Shiplake's Drama Department in November of last year. Prior to this, Mr Miller worked in Egypt, establishing a new English and Drama Department at The British International School in New Cairo.
What does your average day entail?
I tend to arrive early. I function well in the morning, so I usually plan for the day ahead around 7.30am. Checking emails is hugely important, not just departmental or subject biased, but the college as a whole. In any job, understanding the format of the day is crucial. Likewise in teaching, you must understand the shifts which takes place between teaching an 11 year old and a 16/17 year old. They require different planning and mentality. I work closely with the Head of Drama and also the Head of Careers. At any given point during the day we can talk about formal matters or enjoy a social chat around favoured likes or dislikes. I admit to enjoying break and lunch-times as well as rehearsing. Catering here at the College is exceptional. It is also important to liaise with the outside world away from your subject area. I enjoy a crossword on a Friday lunch with other members of the academic staff, for example. Mostly, however, additional time is taken up with rehearsals or surgery. Working in education is rewarding but can be all-consuming.
If you could perform in any play or show, which would it be, and what character would you play?
Now there’s a thing! As a child, I was in a number of films and TV programmes. I think coming from Pickering in the Yorkshire Dales, led me into acting, because of its location and historical interest. However, as I grew up, directing became quite an obsession – even at drama school. I was fortunate enough to direct in the west-end and work with professional producers. Acting really wasn’t what I was about. I suppose were I to play a part in a part or show, I would veer toward the work of Harold Pinter or, as ridiculous as it may sound, some crude musical. Actors must now have such multi-layered facets to their bow. Actors today, are performers. They must have the ability to sing, dance and act. Given the media age we are living in, acting on camera is also vital. Yet, theatre is where my heart belongs.
Since joining Shiplake, what is the most interesting thing you’ve learned?
There is an enormous wealth of talent and passion for drama and theatre here. It is hugely refreshing to see boys embracing performance uninhibited by peer pressure. To be confident and individual, is crucial. I was much impressed recently in rehearsals for the junior production with the musical ability of some of our pupils. I have also found of interest the remarkable ability and talent of the teaching staff. I also think there is a fantastic sense of community. It is the very reason I have and will, hopefully, remain in education. We continue to learn and grow and none of us really have all the answers.
If you were a pupil at Shiplake today, which co-curricular activities would you choose and why?
I actually do like sport. Or I did! I would certainly take advantage of rowing. Cricket was also a favoured sport as was athletics. Sadly, I do not do football. Rugby, I enjoy only as a bystander. Of course I would sign up to any theatre activity or film studies. However, my real other interest and passion is literature. I would certainly enrol in a reading programme that would lend itself to an appreciation of the classics. Drama was not really a proper subject at University. I, therefore, read English. I would hope I will find the time to re-read both my A level set texts and what I was taught at Cambridge, which also included Shakespeare.
What do you enjoy doing outside of school?
I thoroughly enjoy dining out. I adore visiting restaurants with an eclectic gang of friends. I like liturgical music and opera too. My idea of heaven is also to watch a Miss Marple or an Inspector Morse. They are so beautifully written and acted, particularly Joan Hickson as Miss Marple. I enjoy contemporary dance and ballet. I so admire the physical demands made on artists who communicate through their bodies rather than the verbal.
If you were hosting a dinner party and could invite 3 people, living or dead, who would they be and why?
For the insane nature of his philosophy regarding theatre, Antonin Artaud. For the delectable debate and culinary delights, Nigella Lawson. Finally, my Nan who sadly died eight years ago. An indomitable spirit. A true Yorkshire lady and an inspiration to me throughout my life.
What does the future hold for Mr Miller?
I have never adhered to conformity or formula. My life has taken many weird and wonderful turns – often unexpected. I would like to continue in education as it still fascinates me in all its guises. I would like to direct again, perhaps professionally. I would also like to grow old(er) continuing to read weekend supplements, theatre visits and dining out with those who I have met along the way. To enjoy a schooner of sherry or a glass of port, appropriately. And finally, to embrace future opportunities with great gusto.
