We were saddened to learn of the passing of BCTV member Barrie Stead. Our thoughts are with Brenda Stead and her family, who have shared the following tribute in his memory:

From his appointment as Relief Manager at The Plaza, Birkenhead, to becoming Director of Howard and Wyndham, Barrie Stead 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.

For 45 years, I had the privilege of sharing this journey with him.

Barrie passed away on 1 July 2026.