AT Bolton School where he was a pupil, Michael Shipley acted with Sir Ian McKellen.

While his fellow pupil pursued a theatrical career, Michael became a solicitor. But he never lost his interest in all things theatrical.

Now members of Bolton Little Theatre has recognised his contribution to the theatre by making him a honorary life member.

Michael said the honour came as a complete surprise.

He first performed in the theatre in 1948 in a production of Great Day. He had no lines but the enjoyment he had of being on stage meant he was hooked for life.

Michael has held a number of offices with BLT, starting with assistant secretary and later chairman. He continues to serve on the committee.

For a number of years he was director of productions. He was the founder editor of Prompter, the theatre's newsletter, and still edits it. This month he produces the Prompter's 130th edition.

He has not played any major roles for a long time, but thinks the part he is most remembered for is that of Henry Higgins, which he played for Bolton Operatic Society.

He has been in about 30 plays and directed many more.

Michael was delighted when Holy Ghosts, which he directed, was named Drama of the Year by the Greater Manchester Drama Federation. He next directs for BLT with a production of Oh, What a Lovely War.

His experiences directing at Whitefield Garrick made him appreciate the value of an intimate theatre and he was one of the driving forces behind the conversion of BLT's Forge Theatre.

music

He also started the Summer Festival productions at Smithills Hall.

Through BLT, Michael became involved with the Little Theatre Guild of Great Britain. He has been the Bolton representative for many years, served on the committee and been chairman for two years.

Michael has always been keen on music and in the past played piano and organ. He has directed a number of operas, the last one being Carmen for Preston Opera Company. That production, which had a cast of 130, was judged the Best Operatic Production by the National Operatic and Dramatic Association.

Michael spent many years on the now defunct Bolton Arts Advisory Panel and also ran the Bolton Concert Society which used to stage concerts in the summer.

He describes himself as: "Possibly one of the quietest directors there are and the least interventionist."

He added: "My joy is seeing a production grow into life. I am very happy with directing in the Forge, where there is less room for intervention. I don't drill actors, I will let the play take over."

Michael believes that audiences at the theatre should know they will experience something they won't see on television.

"I worry that we might get too bogged down with hits of yesteryear," he added. "Doing plays like Holy Ghost is where the Little Theatre scores."

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