IT Crowd star Richard Ayoade discusses his work and life with pupils in Ipswich as part of arts festival
Actor, director and comedian Richard Ayoade returns to St Joseph's College to do a workshop with pupils.
Despite numerous appearances in front of the camera and working with some of the biggest names in the movie business, IT Crowd star Richard Ayoade is famed for being shy and unassuming in public.
Actor, director and comedian Richard Ayoade returns to St Joseph's College to do a workshop with pupils.
But the actor and director appeared to be almost at home yesterday as he addressed pupils at St Joseph’s College in Ipswich as the school’s 2015 Arts Festival got under way.
The former pupil, whose film credits includes science fiction comedy The Watch, took questions on a range of matters from his favourite films and director, to his time at St Joseph’s and even whether the arts or science was superior.
He also spoke about the process of writing, and the many drafts that go along with it, and what it was like to work on film sets.
A total of 70 pupils signed up for the workshops, which helped to kick off a week-long series of events for the 20th anniversary of the school’s festival.
Miss Joanna Davey, a teacher at the school who is leading the Arts Festival, said: “I think that because he came to the school they can identify with him.
“He has moved forward and led an exciting life and his charm and modesty is quite endearing.
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“I hope they feel inspired and have a chance to learn about the arts in a different way.”
Ayoade, 38, is perhaps best known for playing the socially awkward Moss in the IT Crowd – but his TV appearances also include Garth Marenghi’s Darkplace and The Mighty Boosh.
He has also worked behind the camera, directing Submarine and The Double, while his first book was released last year
Speaking after his workshops, Ayoade said: “I’m very grateful to the school. Hopefully it wasn’t overfocused on my enjoyment – I was trying not to bore them!”
The college’s festival, which this year has the theme of Disturbing the Universe, continues until Sunday.
It will include an art exhibition, performances and a photography workshop, before coming to an end with the 20th Anniversary Unplugged Celebration on Sunday evening.
