Bryan Rhoades
Rest In Peace
It is with great sadness that I have to advise you of the death of Bryan following a long illness. Bryan was a well-loved friend and a truly tremendous supporter and servant of our little theatre for over 40 years. He had been a member of both Horley Central Players and Barts Players as well as a founding member of the touring 'Surrey Strollers' since the mid 50s.
He contributed greatly to the life of the theatre in many ways, but will be remembered in particular for two - acting and electrics.
Bryan was the theatre's Chief Electrician for nearly 30 years, taking over from Jimmy James in the early 70s. He was responsible for many imaginative and production-enhancing lighting plots during that time and was also responsible for the major rewiring of the theatre during our conversion in 1987.
In acting terms, most of Bryan's major work was undertaken in the 50s - 80s with a variety of roles ranging from My Three Angels through Doctor In The House to The Long and the Short Tale.
Latterly, one of his great loves was the Musical Theatre, and he took part in a number of our musical contributions, including Salad Days and both of the recent Music Hall presentations - Tonight at the Empire and An Evening at the Empire, the later being his final appearance on our stage.
Our deepest sympathy, thoughts and prayers have been expressed to Margaret, and his family. He will be very greatly missed.
Chris Butler - February 2001
