Paul Elliott: A Theatrical Titan Remembered
The theatre world mourns the loss of Paul Elliott, an ebullient and engaging West End producer who passed away at the age of 84. Elliott was a prolific figure in British theatre, renowned for his successful pantomimes, star-laden musicals, and enduring contributions to the stage over several decades.
Early Career and West End Breakthrough
Emerging in the late 1960s as part of a new generation of producers, Elliott was mentored by industry stalwarts like Peter Bridge, John Gale, and Michael Codron. Alongside contemporaries such as Cameron Mackintosh and Bill Kenwright, he quickly made his mark. In 1970, he teamed up with Duncan Weldon to produce When We Are Married by JB Priestley, a superb West End debut that showcased his knack for blending veteran talent with fresh energy.
Pantomime Pre-eminence
Elliott became the leading pantomime producer in the UK, writing or directing around 500 productions. His first panto, Goldilocks and the Three Bears in Hull in 1968, set the stage for a career defined by festive cheer and commercial success. He cultivated a stable of regular stars, including Les Dawson, Danny La Rue, and Lily Savage (Paul O'Grady), with Scottish performer Allan Stewart as his favourite dame for over a decade.
His passion for pantomime was evident in his favourite, Goldilocks, which he likened to Cinderella but with a twist. However, challenges arose, such as when Ken Dodd extended a performance at Wimbledon theatre, prompting Elliott to famously exclaim, "He's not sticking to my script!" Despite later competition from companies like Qdos, he remained an influential figure, gracefully transitioning into an advisory role.
Major Hits and Collaborations
Elliott's career soared with hits like Ray Cooney's Run for Your Wife in 1983, which ran in the West End for nine years and toured globally. In 1989, he produced Buddy, a musical celebration of Buddy Holly that enjoyed a 13-year run. Another standout was Jolson in 1995, featuring a sensational performance by Brian Conley, which wowed audiences with its innovative design and live energy.
After a period apart, he reunited with Weldon, each focusing on different theatrical niches. Elliott leaned towards juke-box musicals and classics, producing shows like The Pleasure of His Company with Douglas Fairbanks Jr. and Bus Stop with Lee Remick.
Personal Life and Legacy
Born in Bournemouth in 1941, Elliott came from humble beginnings, with parents in greengrocery and floristry. He started in acting, with roles in Dixon of Dock Green on BBC TV, before co-founding E&B Productions in 1964. His personal life included marriages to Jenny Logan and later Linda Hayden, with whom he had children.
Elliott's later achievements included acquiring the rights to Stones in His Pockets, transforming it into a West End and Broadway smash hit. He also produced high-class revivals like Private Lives with Alan Rickman and Lindsay Duncan, and a blood-soaked Macbeth with Patrick Stewart.
Honours and Final Years
In recognition of his contributions, Elliott received an honorary degree from Arts University Bournemouth in 2015 and a special Olivier award in 2018. He published memoirs titled Keeping My Balls in the Air in 2018, reflecting on a life dedicated to theatre. He is survived by his wife Linda, children Haydn, Laura Jane, and Simon, leaving behind a legacy of laughter, drama, and theatrical innovation that will be cherished by audiences and peers alike.
