Late theatre boss had 'unrelenting love for arts'

A late theatre boss had an "unrelenting love for the arts" and was a "believer in the power of storytelling", his colleagues have said.

John Hales, who led a campaign that resulted in the reopening of the Seagull Theatre, in Lowestoft, Suffolk, in 2009, died on Tuesday aged 56.

The writer, director and actor worked as the venue's manager until 2013, after which he continued to support and stage productions at the theatre.

In a statement shared on social media, the theatre described Hales' death as "very sad news" and said he would be "forever missed and never forgotten".

The theatre added Hales' legacy would not just be the shows he staged, but the "lives he shaped and the theatre and community he helped hold together".

"John Hales was so much more than a manager of the Seagull Theatre - he was the beating heart," it added.

"An actor, writer, director, and above all, a passionate friend and believer in the power of storytelling. He dedicated countless hours to keeping creativity alive in Lowestoft.

"Those who knew him will remember his warmth, kindness, thunderous laughter and the way he encouraged others to believe in themselves," it said.

Zeb Soanes, a BBC radio broadcaster, author and actor, from Lowestoft, said Hales showed him that "it was OK" for boys to pursue acting as a career.

"I saw his King Lear at least four times and one performance was one of the most thrilling and visceral theatrical experiences of my life," he said.

"When you were in a show with John, you joined him as a soldier rallying to the cause.

"He led us all into battle night after night. And, being an actor, he was a director who understood actors - the very best kind. Farewell Good King John."

The Marina Theatre in Lowestoft, which Hales also worked closely during his career, said he was a "force for good".

"Today our thoughts are with all who knew and loved John, including everyone at The Seagull Theatre," it said.

"He was a force for good who cared deeply about theatre and the people around him.

"We will treasure our Oliver and Norah's Ark days, and we will always remember just how extraordinarily talented John was. We are lucky to have known him."

Do you have a story suggestion for Suffolk? Contact us below.

Follow Suffolk news on BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram and X.