Tom Cantrell. Cambridge graduate, author and lecturer at York University.
Graduated 2001.

After graduating in 2001 Tom continued to study drama and completed his doctorate in 2010.
He now lectures in the Department of Theatre, Film and Television at the University of York and has recently published his first book titled ‘Playing for Real’.

"I studied English, Theatre Studies and History A Levels from 1999-2001. My tutors were Martin Peel and Sue Skirrow for English and Theatre, and Mrs Black, Geoff Stewart and Andy Gwinnett for History.

"I had a fantastic two years at York College. Academically, all my courses were run with enthusiasm and dedication by the staff. Central to my experience was a sense of fun. My theatre studies tutors exposed us to a huge range of writing and theory which further inspired my love of theatre. The mixture of analytical study and practical experimentation is a teaching model I have developed in my own work at York University. The old Portakabin, half class room, half studio, brings back very happy memories, though the potential for students in the new building looks rather more impressive!

"The quality of life at the college was also very high. To be treated as an adult, both socially and academically, led to an independence which is vital.

"My qualifications from the courses allowed me to study at Cambridge University – a thought that had not even crossed my mind when I started. This was due to the infectious enthusiasm of the staff, whose passion for the subject was handed down to the students.

"Being surrounded by other young people with similar interests was also inspiring. I have kept in contact with many friends I met in my two years at the College, and recently wrote and performed two plays at York Theatre Royal with Michael Lightfoot, now a close friend who I met in my Theatre Studies class.

"Since leaving York College I have continued to study drama at undergraduate and postgraduate level, completing my doctorate last year. I now lecture in the Department of Theatre, Film and Television at the University of York. I have recently published my first book, Playing for Real, co-edited with Professor Mary Luckhurst. My interest in theatre, particularly writing about it, was a product of my time at York College."

Back to alumni page