Steven Laffoley-Edwards is an experienced stage manager, producer, lighting designer and theatre practitioner whose career has encompassed the West End, regional theatre and more than 25 years at the Jersey Arts Centre.
Originally from the Midlands, Steven developed an interest in the technical side of theatre while still at school. Determined to build a professional career in the industry, he moved to London and began working at the Prince of Wales Theatre shortly before his 20th birthday.
Steven joined the West End production of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Aspects of Love, where he worked for more than a year. Within six months, he became Head Flyman, making him one of the youngest heads of department working in the West End at that time. His responsibilities also included helping to construct the production’s scenery and ensuring that the technically demanding show ran safely and smoothly each night.
In 1998, Steven joined the Jersey Arts Centre, beginning a long association with one of the Channel Islands’ leading cultural organisations. He currently serves as its Deputy Director for Stage and Events, overseeing the technical delivery, stage management and practical operation of a varied programme of theatre, music, dance, film and community events.
His work encompasses every aspect of theatrical production, from liaising with visiting companies and supervising crews to designing lighting, managing stage logistics, preparing risk assessments and maintaining the venue’s technical equipment. He has also served as lighting designer for many of the Arts Centre’s major community productions and has helped support generations of visiting artists and local performers.
Steven is particularly committed to passing his knowledge on to others. Through technical workshops and practical training, he has introduced young people and aspiring theatre workers to lighting, sound, stage management and the many skills required behind the scenes.
Although best known for his technical and production work, Steven has also appeared on stage, including performances as a traditional pantomime Dame. His understanding of theatre from both sides of the curtain has given him a deep appreciation of the teamwork required to bring a live performance to an audience.
Away from the theatre, Steven has devoted a considerable amount of time to public and community service. He served as Chef de Police for the Parish of St Saviour in Jersey and remains closely involved with the island’s Honorary Police. He has also worked as a scuba-diving instructor and previously served as President of the Kennel Club of Jersey.
Known affectionately within the theatre industry as “Pink Steve”, a reference to his distinctive pink Mohican, Steven believes that standing out must always be supported by professionalism, quality and hard work.
Through his dedication to stagecraft, live performance and the people who make theatre possible, Steven has made an important contribution to the cultural life of Jersey and to the wider entertainment profession.
Steven Laffoley-Edwards is proud to be Water Rat number 936 of the Grand Order of Water Rats.
PHOTO GALLERY
ARCHIVE VAULT
MEDIA
