Paul Shephard

From a young age, Paul was deeply immersed in the vibrant and dynamic world of theatre, a passion largely ignited by his mother’s enchanting performances. She captivated audiences as a talented musician, playing in local orchestras for various amateur drama groups throughout the county. Her dedication and creativity inspired Paul, instilling in him a fervent love for the performing arts that would profoundly shape his future.

During his university years at what is now the University of Gloucestershire, Paul eagerly threw himself into the Annual College Show, a cherished tradition that showcased the talents of aspiring performers. The adrenaline rush of racing against the clock became a hallmark of his experience; he often found himself behind the wheel of vans overflowing with eclectic props and elaborate set pieces, navigating the picturesque countryside in the frantic lead-up to performances. This fast-paced environment fuelled his excitement, and his love for the stage deepened as he contributed to a rich tapestry of memorable productions over the years, including:

• Sweet Charity (1998)
• Oklahoma (1999)
• Me and My Girl (2000)
• West Side Story (2001)
• Babes in Arms (2002)
• Godspell (2003)
• Return to the Forbidden Planet (2004)

However, as the years passed, the university made the difficult decision to discontinue its annual show, leaving Paul with a void and a lingering yearning for a creative outlet to rekindle his theatrical spirit.

It was during this time of reflection that he stumbled upon The Hardwicke Players, a warm and welcoming community theatre company eager to embrace his talents and experience. After several lively conversations over drinks, where laughter flowed as freely as the refreshments, Paul was invited to step into the role of lighting technician for their upcoming production of *Robyn Hood & The Legend of Sherwood*. This opportunity became the catalyst that reignited his passion for theatre, and Paul eagerly dove back into the craft with renewed enthusiasm and dedication.

The transition from the quaint and intimate Quedgeley Village Hall to the majestic Kings Theatre represented a thrilling new chapter in Paul’s theatrical journey. He was now equipped with a spacious and impressive stage, as well as access to a state-of-the-art professional lighting rig. The collaborative spirit of the theatre’s technical staff invigorated him, as they worked together to bring his creative vision to life through innovative lighting and design.

So, come join the magic of theatre—be there or be square!

(As a side note, I’d like to add that I don’t always resemble the picture above—thank goodness for that!)