Leeds Playhouse pays tribute to 'kind-hearted' manager who worked at theatre for nearly 25 years

Denis Bray died on Sunday, August 2 at the age of 54.

He had been part of the Leeds Playhouse premises team for 24 years and his colleagues described him as the 'backbone' of the theatre.

Leeds Playhouse, formerly known as the West Yorkshire Playhouse and one of the north's largest producing theatres, has paid tribute to the popular theatre manager.

The digital screen outside the theatre now displays a 'Marching on Together' tribute in yellow and blue for Mr Bray, who was a lifelong Leeds United fan.

The team said: "Denis Bray was the backbone of Leeds Playhouse having been part of the premises team for 24 years.

"He was the person everyone wanted in their corner and from the start of his career, was the man in the know and a pillar of the Playhouse.

"Known for his quick wit, patient and supportive nature and infectious laugh, he was a man with a big heart and an even bigger eye for being right there when needed.

"Denis was often the first person in the building and the last one out at night and more than likely was the first person staff, artists and the wider Playhouse community were introduced to.

"His kind-hearted nature put everyone at ease straight away.

"In recent years, Denis has been instrumental in the redevelopment of the Playhouse working above and beyond his every-day job to ensure the safe running and reopening of the building for all who use it.

"He was much loved by staff, colleagues, friends and family and will be truly missed amongst the whole Leeds Playhouse family.

"Steady Away Denis."

Tributes have poured in from the theatre community as colleagues paid their respects to Mr Bray's family and loved ones.

TV writer and producer Mark Catley said: "Gutted, Denis wasn’t just a friendly face, when I first started getting writing gigs that brought me into the WYP he was someone whose accent I recognised and vice versa - he always had an encouraging word.

"I doubt I’m alone in feeling the building is emptier without him. RIP"

Manchester Collective producer Martin Atkinson said: "Such a huge loss. Absolute legend.

"Sending love to all his family and all you guys right now. The place won't be the same without him."

A message from the Editor: Leeds has a fantastic story to tell - and the Yorkshire Evening Post has been rooted firmly at the heart of telling the stories of our city since 1890. We believe in ourselves and hope you believe in us too. We need your support to help ensure we can continue to be at the heart of life in Leeds. Subscribe to our website and enjoy unlimited access to local news and information online and on our app. With a digital subscription, you can read more than 5 articles, see fewer ads, enjoy faster load times, and get access to exclusive newsletters and content. Click here to subscribe. For more details on our newspaper subscription offers click here.

Thank you

Laura Collins