| Administrative History | The Ellesmere Port Light Opera Company (EPLOC) was formally established in 1976 following a visit to Reutlingen, the twin town in southern Germany, by the Gilbert and Sullivan section of the Ellesmere Port Music Society (EPMS). This informal group had started in 1968, under the artistic direction of Leigh Stanley, and with particular support from Malcolm Perry, Musical Director of EPMS and Phyllis Stanley, secretary. Seven productions were staged in Ellesmere Port before the group was invited to perform The Gondoliers in Reutlingen in 1975.
The success of that visit, and the enthusiasm of those taking part, led to the formation of EPLOC. After an inaugural production in Sutton High School, shows were staged in the Civic Hall every year until 2006. Artistic direction was provided by Leigh Stanley, who led the Company throughout its history. Several Musical Directors were involved over the years; significantly, Malcolm Perry, then head of music at Whitby High School, led the EPMS and its Gilbert and Sullivan section; Michael Hoyland accompanied the group to Reutlingen in 1975, and played in many subsequent shows; Michael Williams became musical director in 1983, before collaborating with Leigh Stanley in writing several musical shows. Other Musical Directors were Martin Fogell, Graham Ellis, John Turner, Francis Roscoe, Linda Fox, Mavis Chamberlain, Ken Sage and Jane Lennie. Choreographer throughout the life of EPLOC was Lynn McKenzie
EPLOC developed a high standard of production, and entertained many full houses at the Civic Hall. In most years secondary shows were staged, either in school halls, or the Grange Arts Centre, or sometimes again at the Civic Hall. A full list of EPLOC productions is attached.
By the early 2000s, most of the original members had moved on, moved away, or simply retired from the stage. At the same time, audiences were falling due to increased competition for people's time. It became increasingly difficult to run the company. Although shows were planned following Barnum in 2006, they never came to fruition, and EPLOC as a company was wound up in 2007. A successor group, named 'Encore!' was established, but it never gained the momentum or support that EPLOC achieved, and it folded within a year. Closing funds were distributed to three local societies.
Leigh Stanley, who directed every show up to and including Barnum, died in December 2013. On 4th June 2014, which would have been his 63rd birthday, a concert was staged at the Ellesmere Port Civic Hall to celebrate his life and achievements. Every seat was taken.
Brief history written by the depositor Jun 2014. |