A LONG-RUNNING theatre group has closed due to a lack of manpower.
For more than 30 years, the Ellesmere Port Light Opera Company, recently renamed Encore!, has presented light opera and musical shows in the town.
But now they have brought the curtain down on the company because they can’t find enough members to help run it.
President Peter Speirs and acting chairwoman Audrey Rooney said in a statement: “We have benefited from talented artistic and musical direction, and have maintained our highest standards right up to the last show, Salad Days, which we presented at the Civic Hall in May.
“The people of Ellesmere Port have been generous in their support of the company. We are tremendously grateful for the support of our audiences, for the support of the borough, and the publicity given by the Pioneer.
“We have had a dedicated membership, and splendid technical and backstage support.”
But they added: “In recent years, however, it has been increasingly difficult to find enough people willing to serve in the management of the company, and also to sing, act and dance in our shows.
“At our AGM last week, therefore, we took a positive decision to close, while retaining all the wonderful memories of countless shows.”
How do you feel about the opera company closing? Do you have any memories you want to share with us? Call us now on 0151 356 2345 or e-mail pioneer@cheshirenews.co.uk.
