08/06/2022
Following the sudden and unexpected death of one of the founding team here at the Phoenix, details about Paddy's funeral have been announced.
It will be held at Rotherham Crematorium on the 17th of June at 10:15am. People attending have been asked to wear a musical theatre top instead of all black if possible. Following this will be a wake at Swinton Working Man's Club (TBC)
His family would like donations instead of flowers to the ICU at Rotherham General Hospital where they worked for many days to save his life.
Patrick Sherlock was the Phoenix's first front of house and bar manager. For several years he was at the heart of our customer services and in those early days was instrumental in building the foundation that much of our later success was based on. Paddy was always ready with a friendly smile and an even bigger heart.
Paddy was involved in several school shows here at the Academy including Oliver! where he played an unforgettable Mr Bumble. He taught singing for many years with our Starmakers Performing Arts Academy sharing his passion for performing and singing with many young people across the area.
He also directed for Encore Theatre Company and made many friends in Encore and Kippax Amateur Operatic Society as well as all of the groups and societies who were part of the Phoenix at that time.
Paddy suffered a stroke some years ago which meant that he was no longer able to be involved directly with the Phoenix and even though he physically wasn't able to work at the Phoenix he visited from time to time and remained a firm supporter of not just us but the arts in the area.
Everyone at the Phoenix wishes his family and friends the very best at this sad, difficult time. He is a great loss to us and his passion, strength courage and friendship will be greatly missed by everyone.
