Airdrie & Coatbridge Advertiser
Shining star is applauded
A dedicated member of the magnificent Monklands Light Opera has received the perfect Christmas present – the adulation and appreciation of his peers.
Alan Leslie was honoured for his 23 years of loyal service to the musical group by his respected friends and colleagues.
And despite taking a break from the organisation to concentrate on other commitments, members hope to once again team up with Alan in the future.
A Monklands Light Opera spokesperson said: “Alan first joined Airdrie Academy Former Pupils, as the light opera group was known then, back in 1979.
“His first show was The Gypsy Princess and in the decades since, he has appeared in many of the club’s productions, including Gilbert and Sullivan, Oklahoma and Half a Sixpence.
“His performances as Bill in Me and My Girl, Seymour in Little Shop of Horrors and supporting roles in Summer Holiday, Oklahoma, Brigadoon, and many more, proved Alan was a real asset to the club.
“Throughout the 23 years he has spent with the group in total, Alan has always been there to support, guide and nurture new talent.”
The spokesperson added: “For all the work Alan has done on stage, he has also given service to the club in many other ways by serving on our committee several times; most notably as president in our 25th anniversary year.
“He has been part of the stage crew, front of house and front of house manager – and shone in every role he took on.
“Alan has recently taken a break from being on stage due to other commitments, but he is still there for all of us at Monklands Light Opera and we hope we can maybe entice him back on stage one day.
“Our congratulations and appreciation go to Alan, now a life member of Monklands Light Opera.”