The Association was greatly saddened to hear of the recent passing of longstanding member Barrie C Stead, most recently owner and operator of the Hollywood Plaza Cinema in Scarborough.
From his appointment as Relief Manager at The Plaza, Birkenhead, to becoming Director of Howard and Wyndham, Barrie dedicated his life to the theatre and entertainment industry. His achievements included establishing The New Theatre, Oxford; providing magnificent leadership in the reopening of the Theatre Royal Nottingham, followed by the Royal Concert Hall; and contributing his artistic vision at Apollo Leisure.
He was responsible for countless Summer Shows and Pantomimes that travelled the length and breadth of the UK. He directed the famous Midnight Shows at the Opera House, Blackpool, raising funds for the EABF (Royal Variety Charity), as well as supporting many fundraising events for the CTBF.
At the 1,525-seat Ritz Theatre, Lincoln, and the 2,250-seat Futurist Theatre, Scarborough, he achieved an outstanding balance between live theatre and cinema. The Futurist proudly housed the largest cinema screen outside London’s Leicester Square. The saving of the Hollywood Plaza Cinema, Scarborough stands as a lasting monument to him.
Over a career spanning more than 66 years, he worked with the greatest names and productions, from live entertainment to the Silver Screen. Barrie earned the respect and admiration of colleagues through his professionalism, generosity, and unwavering commitment to the theatre. Throughout his career, he always endeavoured to give every patron the very best experience possible.
Our thoughts are with Barrie’s wife Brenda, as well as with his family and friends.