It is with great sadness that Hartley Arts Group announces the passing of our true friend and colleague, Jan Davies.
Jan had very bravely fought hard to maintain her usual helpful and cheery attitude throughout her illness and as recently as November 2012 was seen managing the front of house ticket desk and attending the HAG Rocks! choir sessions.
Jan came to Hartley Wintney in 1996 and subsequently joined HAG after taking part and enjoying the audience participation performance of ‘Trial By Jury’ in 1999. She was a HAG committee member from 2001-2010, and had run the box office since 2002, only reluctantly giving up the post due to her illness. In addition she performed the role of Production Manager on a number of the larger shows performed by HAG during this period.
She gained her management experience through her lifetime attachment to service industries. Initially flying with a number of airlines including Cunard Eagle, BOAC and Brymon, and subsequently, several years in Conference and Banqueting with Trust House Forte. Stage show management experience was gained working with Bermuda Music & Dramatic Society during the 80’s where she got used to managing shows regularly with budgets of up to US $30K.
Jan’s favourite on-stage character was the Queen of Transylvania in ‘My Fair Lady’ where each line she uttered was delivered with great feeling and compassion. Meanwhile, off-stage as with many productions, she responded to the demands of the director and the public alike, through her responsibilities as PM and Box Office Manager.
Since 2000 she had been a true enthusiast and contributor to the Group. Her strong presence had been influential in committee, production management, front of house, catering etc., and as box office manager there is hardly a member of the audience who has not had dealings with Jan either through our Friends of HAG section or show bookings.
Not one person in Hartley Arts Group hasn’t had the delight of Jan’s enthusiasm and passion for amateur dramatics and her warm friendship. Her support for every single show has been truly invaluable. Her loss will be deeply felt.
Our thoughts and prayers are with Tony and his family.
From the family:
Dear Friends,
The arrangements for the funeral of Jan Davies are as follows:
Service of Thanksgiving
12noon Tuesday 22nd January. St Mary’s Church, Winchfield, Hampshire RG27 8DB
Service of Committal and Cremation
9.45am Wednesday 23rd January. Easthampstead Crematorium, South Road, Nine Mile Ride, Wokingham, Berkshire RG40 3DW
No Black Ties. Family Flowers Only. Retiring collection will be made for St Michael’s Hospice, Basingstoke. Donations to RSCH – St Luke’s Cancer Care, Guildford.
Further details from A W Goddard, Funeral Directors, Fleet, Hampshire 01252 616431.
Tony & Richard.