Ryan Weldon
Facilitator, Marcy Open School, Folwell Performing Arts Magnet, Sanford Middle School
Ryan Weldon is a Minnesota-native driven by the desire to bring the power of play to as many people as possible. Ever since his first role as “Boy With Fish” in a Roseville community theatre production, Ryan has loved performing. While at New York University, Ryan spent his summers in Italy using theatre and the arts to teach children English. These summers instilled a love of education in Ryan, and taught him the power that the arts can have in the classroom. For three years Ryan coached the Bronx Science High School speech team, helping students grow, not only in their performance skills, but also their writing, professionalism, and confidence. After graduating from New York University with an individualized B.A. in “Acting: Identity at Play,” Ryan acted in New York and Los Angeles. He was worked with Fiasco Theater, the Epic Theater Ensemble, and The Paper Bag Players, as well as shooting two feature films, “Creedmoria” and “Shared Rooms.” Having recently moved back to Minneapolis, Ryan is thrilled to continue his artistic and educational career with Project Success
Favorite musicians:
Kelly Clarkson, Adele, Sara Bareilles, HAIM, Troye Sivan, Ingrid Michaelson, Tiziano Ferro
If you had to pick a theme song that would play every time you entered the room, what would it be?
“Break It Down Again” by Tears For Fears
Favorite books:
The Little Prince, In Other Words, The Alchemist, Lily & The Octopus
Favorite movies:
Juno, Slumdog Millionaire, Clueless, The Devil Wears Prada
Favorite food:
Anything Italian! Pasta and pizza!
Favorite quote:
“Let the beauty of what you love be what you do” -Rumi
Favorite subject in school:
English and History
Favorite theater experience:
I loved Peter & The Starcatchers. Such a creative and playful take on a classic tale. A beautiful example of how much can be achieved without expensive sets or costumes.
Your ultimate vacation destination:
Southeast Asia and Japan
If you could have one superpower, what would it be?
Flight!
The most influential person in your life/favorite teacher or mentor:
Margot Olson – My middle school orchestra and theatre director. She inspired a passion for the arts that has fueled me every day.
What you wanted to be when you grew up:
Actor and storyteller