A West End star from Coventry returned to his old school to inspire students as they prepared to take the stage for their annual production – Rock of Ages.
Ian McIntosh, currently starring as Jean Valjean in Les Miserables at London’s Sondheim Theatre, surprised students at West Coventry Academy – just days before they staged musical Rock of Ages for friends and family.
And the excited youngsters were treated to a masterclass by the Tile Hill-born star, who attended Woodlands Academy, one of two schools that merged to create West Coventry Academy.
He said: “It felt incredibly special to come back and share my journey with young performers currently finding their own voices.
“Working with the students on Rock of Ages, a musical I previously performed in at the Shaftesbury Theatre in London’s West End, was particularly meaningful.
“What stood out most was their enthusiasm, their openness to learning, and their genuine commitment to the craft.
“Their energy reminded me so much of the spark that first drew me into performing arts during my own school years.”
Ian revisited his former school on 20 April, where he spent the day watching rehearsals and performances of the upcoming Rock of Ages musical, even working with students individually on their skills, confidence and stage presence.
He spoke to the students about the importance of drama and performance, and the range of careers available within the industry.
Drama Teacher Lucy Cole said: “The students absolutely loved Ian’s visit. Many already knew who he was and recognised the productions he has appeared in!
“It meant a great deal to them that Ian came from the same area and had attended our school. The students really listened to what he said and genuinely applied his advice to their performances afterwards.”
Alongside meeting and coaching the students, Ian also got to catch up with his own former teachers.
Post 16 Strategic Lead John Griffin said: “It was an absolute joy to welcome back one of our own, Ian, a former cheeky chappy who I remember as a little Year 7 student, always buzzing around, getting stuck into everything — to lead a coaching session for our current cast.
“Seeing him now at the very top of his game is both inspiring and deeply rewarding. He was full of ambition back then, and it’s a delight to see him living out every bit of it today.”
Mrs Cole also taught Ian in his days at the school.
She reflected: “When I taught Ian, I had only just started teaching at Woodlands and was helping direct Cabaret, where he played the lead role. Around school he had quite a mischievous reputation! But on stage he was a focused, charismatic and fantastic performer.
“It was absolutely glorious to see him return and work with our students. He was so patient and insightful with them… he would have made a good teacher.”
The students took what they’d learned from Ian on stage with them, for stellar sold-out performances of Rock of Ages.
Katy Porter, Year 9 Progress Leader and Lead Teacher of Drama, said: “Everyone fully committed and shone on stage, from the lead stars to supporting actors, younger students and ensemble performers.
“The students have been rehearsing since October and have shown remarkable commitment. One of the biggest highlights for us as teachers was seeing the friendships the students built backstage, from Year 7 through to Year 13.
“I’m so proud of all of them – they’ve worked so hard over the previous months, and Ian’s visit just gave them that final push to perfect their roles and perform with confidence.”
For West End star Ian, the visit rekindled memories of trading the school’s stage.
He said: “Being back in the school environment made me reflect on how influential school productions were in shaping my path. Those early opportunities lit the flame that ultimately led me to a career on the West End stage.
“It was a powerful reminder that with passion, dedication, and belief in what you love, anything is possible. I am incredibly grateful that creative arts were such a strong part of my education.
“It was a joy to witness that same spirit alive in today’s students, and I have no doubt that many of them will go on to achieve wonderful things, whatever path they choose.”
Headteacher Ana Neofitou said: “We are so grateful that Ian took time out to come back to our school – his visit will form some magical memories for both students and staff.”