Alumni in Focus
5 Minutes with Patch May
Patrick Alexander May( OR2009), or‘ Patch’ to his friends, graduated from the halls of Riverview only to return via the TV screen. After snagging small roles in iconic Australian dramas, A Place to Call Home and Home and Away, he recently starred as one of the leads in the ABC comedy series Ronny Chieng: International Student. We caught up with him recently for a quick Q & A.
Did your schooling at Riverview influence your decision to get into acting?
Acting is something that was always inside me, but the first time I properly allowed myself to dream was when I was nominated for‘ On Stage’ in my Year 12 HSC. My schooling at Riverview gave me a solid platform for a lot of my decisions in life. I was taught to give everything a go and learnt to keep my mind open and curious for any opportunity that came my way. The school’ s ethos and emphasis on discernment helped confirm my true reasons for getting into acting and is why I have remained in this industry through thick and thin.
Which characters have you enjoyed playing most?
Definitely Craig Cooper in Ronny Chieng; International Student. It’ s the biggest role I’ ve had and an absolute blast- to be able to play someone so energetic and high on life was incredible. Also, playing Kurt‘ Hellbent’ Ramone in The Half Dead was thrilling as my first real acting gig. I learnt so much from being on set with some really experienced actors and thoroughly enjoyed preparing for the role, which included extensive training and dieting and also doing my own stunts.
What advice would you give Drama students who are considering pursuing an acting career?
First, go with your gut- be it acting or any career. Better to go hard for two years and realise it’ s not for you, than to be playing the‘ what if’ game. Second, find something else you like doing or are passionate about. There can be months at a time when that phone doesn’ t ring, so to have something else isn’ t just good for your bank account, but also your mental health. Finally, always be curious. Don’ t stop asking questions, as it keeps your possibilities endless.
Congratulations Charles Pegum
Charles Pegum( OR2014) was recently awarded the St Ignatius Medallion at Newman College, the Jesuit college at Melbourne University. The medal is awarded to“ a student who makes a significant contribution to the life of the community,” which in Charles’ case, was an acknowledgement of his community service. He has been awarded a scholarship by the College to begin a Master’ s degree next year. We congratulate Charles and wish him the best in his continuing studies.
Charles Pegum( OR2014) with the College Rector, Fr Bill Uren SJ.
36 | IGNATIAN | DECEMBER 2017