IAN THOMAS AND PAUL RICHARDS

It is with sadness we learnt recently of the deaths of two of our past talented musicians and orchestra members.

Ian Thomas was the Accompanist for Oliver when Carmarthen Youth Opera competed in the prestigious Waterford Festival in 1980. The following year, he was the Musical Director of ‘The King and I’ when he composed a special version of the finale song.

Ian was an extremely talented musician and composer and wrote the musical ‘After Rebecca’ about the Rebecca Riots which was performed in the Wales Millennium Centre in 2013 and which featured several past Youth Opera members.

Paul Richards was the bass guitarist for several Youth Opera shows.  His family have all been associated with the Youth Opera for very many years.  His brother Anthony Richards, performed in many lead roles and his niece Kayleigh and his sister-in-law Carys, were also leading ladies.  Ann, Paul’s mother, was on the Props Team and Youth Opera were very fortunate that Ann kindly stored all our costumes for very many years.  Neville, Paul’s father, was a stage crew member. 

We extend our sympathies to the families and friends.