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Panto Tributes: Friend's Pride After Promoter's Passing
17 Dec, 2025
Summary
- Late promoter Mike Lloyd is honored by the Mitchell Arts Centre's pantomime.
- Lloyd, 82, recently passed away while traveling from the United States.
- The 'Cinderella' panto runs December 18-31, celebrating his cultural impact.
The Mitchell Arts Centre's upcoming pantomime "Cinderella" is set to be a poignant tribute to the late music promoter Mike Lloyd. A close friend and actor, Tim Churchill, stated that Lloyd, who recently died at 82, would have been "very proud" of the production. Lloyd was a significant figure in Stoke-on-Trent's cultural landscape, known for his work with Music Mania and as a board member at the arts centre.
Lloyd's involvement with the Mitchell Arts Centre extended to personally greeting visitors and handing out ice cream during the annual pantomime season. The "Cinderella" show, running from December 18 to 31, will feature images and footage of Lloyd, ensuring his presence is felt. Churchill noted that despite the difficult time following Lloyd's unexpected passing, the cast and crew are pushing forward in his honor.
Beyond his recent involvement with the panto, Mike Lloyd was recognized with an OBE in 2022 for his contributions to classical music and was made an honorary freeman of Stoke-on-Trent in 2025 for his extensive cultural enrichment. He was also a key figure in establishing the Lemmy Kilmister statue and advocated for transforming the Queen's Theatre into a concert venue.
