Tributes paid to former general manager of The Stables who helped secure future of Milton Keynes venue
Tributes have been paid to a former general manager of The Stables who helped secure the future of the famous venue.
Ken Chaproniere, who died earlier this month aged 78, was general manager of the theatre between 1979 and 1988.
A report written by a former chairman of The Stables and shared with the Citizen, details how Ken ‘proved adept’ at seeking commercial sponsorship for the venue in the mid-1980s, at a time when The Stables was unsure how it would go forward financially.
The report says: “The first major commercial donation came from the John Lewis Partnership who for some reason wanted the gift to be anonymous, and this was followed by Tesco PLC.”
Paying tribute, The Stables current chief executive and artistic director Monica Ferguson said: "We are saddened to learn of Ken’s passing.
“He was an enthusiastic supporter of music and the arts and played a significant role in the life of The Stables during his time as general manager.
“We offer our sincere condolences to his family and friends.”
An obituary notice posted by funeral directors H W Mason & Sons described Ken as having “a long association” with Milton Keynes.
As well as his work at The Stables he helped form the Arts Club MK, and also served as the general manager of the Milton Keynes Orchestra and the London Bach Orchestra, as well as being a trustee of the Wavendon Foundation.
Ken’s funeral is being held at Crownhill Crematorium at 2pm on Thursday October 22.
Donations in his memory can be made to St Paul’s Cathedral, where he was a regular supporter and wandsman for many years.