Category: News

In 1975 Alan Blakoe was working for the National Coal Board as a Land Surveyor. As a hobby he purchased a few lanterns, built a home- made lighting desk and volunteered his services to local amateur dramatic societies/schools. Over time Alan’s interest and expertise in theatre lighting grew as did his collection of equipment and in 1981 he established Stage Lighting Services. In 1997 he retired from his career as a surveyor to run his new business full time.

Over the years, Alan has worked with hundreds of companies, professional and amateur including schools, community groups, drama companies and corporate events building up the business. With a reputation for providing expert advice and service with a big smile and a can-do attitude, nothing is too much trouble to ensure a happy customer and a successful production.

From operating the company from the front room in his house, then to a small unit in Fairwater, expanding into ever larger units to the current extensive premises in Pentwyn, Cardiff, Alan has built up from his hobby to a loyal customer base of over 1500. Now, in 2019, Stage Lighting Services employs a staff of 15 providing lighting and staging, along with a range of services including design, installation and operators for productions and events.

“Stage Lighting Services has been a journey of nearly 45 years for me. I had no idea that my love for Musical Theatre would allow me to have a career that’s brought me so much joy over the years. It’s been a pleasure to work with so many people in Cardiff, South Wales and beyond, and I am proud of the part we are able to play in making their productions and events a success.”

Stage Lighting Services will continue under the ownership of Alan’s long-term friend and colleague Phil Hurley, Director of sister-company Stage Sound Services.

Alan met Phil Hurley in 1990, working on a school production at Alan’s former school Whitchurch High where Phil was still a student at the time. Phil started Stage Sound Services and they worked closely together building their respective companies. They moved in to shared premises together in 1999 and have grown together supporting each other’s individual visions and development but still sharing a physical space and joint resources.

Alan says: “Over the last few years I have considered the future of Stage Lighting Services when the time came for me to retire. This has been my life’s work and I wanted to make sure that it was left in safe hands, someone who knew the company and understood our ethos. Knowing Phil so well, it was an obvious choice and I am confident my customers will continue to receive the quality services, advice and support that they expect from Stage Lighting Services”.

Phil takes over ownership from the 1st June 2019. “I left school inspired by Alan and with the idea that I could work within the creative arts and start my own business. Over the years Alan has provided me with advice and support as I started Stage Sound Services, and as it became more established, I hope I was able to play that role for Alan too. It’s a privilege to work with Stage Lighting Services and it’s business as usual for the staff here continuing to provide our clients with quality lighting and staging. Alan has left a great legacy and we intend to continue that for many years to come. “

Alan remains active in the local Cardiff theatre community so you will no doubt see him soon. All the staff at Stage Lighting Services wish Alan a very long and happy retirement and thanks for his many years of hard work..

If you need any help or advice for your production or event, please call the team here on 029 2061 3577 or Click here