Comings and Goings.

Sad news that after two years of sterling work Ian has decided to leave the department to concentrate more on his acting career. He's done an awful lot in his short time with us to support young actors and develop our understanding of actor training. As Drama St Mary's has looked for its niche between Drama School and University he's been a key player in exacting rigour and professionalism from our students - who I've no doubt will miss his mischievous sense of humour and constructive criticisms. The department is all the more healthy for having had his input, however.

We've also had confirmation of the new principal Philip Esler, who joins us from St. Andrews in October. The appointment has taken a while coming, but does mean that our long serving Arthur Naylor will be here to welcome the Pope who it's been announced will deliver a lecture on the value of Catholic education and meet students at St Mary's as part of his UK tour on September 17th. A fitting way to mark his retirement after eighteen years in post. It also gives out induction week a particularly unique feel... poster sale? Goes without saying... freshers bazaar? Of course... School Disco? Sure thing ... Papal Visit? ... Only at St. Mary's.

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