The Encore Theatre Company
The Encore Theatre Company was born in 2002 out of a meeting between Jan and Bruce Morris* and David Crane. Their aim was to bring the art of theatre in all its forms to the local communities in Poitou-Charentes and to provide the opportunity for the production of live shows for actors, singers and dancers.
Since its foundation in 2002 the company has staged a wonderful mixture of shows from musical revues and shows, pantomime, open-air performances, cabaret and a number of stage plays. Thanks to having a professional musical director and a producer/choreographer, as well as a film/video maker among its members, the company has been able to write, produce and record much of its own material.
Regular workshops featuring all aspects of the theatre, including dancing, singing and acting have encourage members to develop many latent talents, enabling those who have never appeared on stage before to tackle their roles with confidence.
Encore is also fortunate in having several members who have employed their special skills in set design and building, sound and lighting, special effects and costume making.
Running in conjunction with the Company’s main activities there are a number of social programmes organized during the year including fetes, garden parties and barbecues.
The Company is a non-profit making organization run by the members for the members. Monies raised at social events and shows go towards the expenses of the productions. Additionally we support a chosen charity and currently we are helping the Refuge de Fontorbe for abused, abandoned dogs and CSF Cancer Support France
* Sadly Bruce died very suddenly in March 2011. He played a huge role in both founding and developing the company and is very much missed. Many tributes have been paid to his larger-than-life character, sense of humour and, of course, his beautiful tenor voice.Encore Theatre Company Executive Committee
The day to day running of the company is carried out by an elected executive committee.
| President and Creative Director | Jan Morris |
| Chairman | Peter Millest |
| Secretary | Linda Cass |
| Treasurer | Len Verey |
| Member | Jude Larcombe |
| Member | Madonna Keys |
| Member | Vicki Meddows-Smith |
