TRIBUTES have been paid to a Truro man who dedicated much of his life to mentoring young people in performing arts.
Renowned actor and director Trevor Hitchings lost his three-year battle with cancer earlier this month.
After a successful West End career, he returned to Cornwall and founded Playrite Theatre School in Truro in 2002 to inspire and support young people to pursue careers in theatre.
Former colleagues Mike Meer, Kirsty Smith, Aaron Barker and Dominic Wood issued a statement saying: "Trevor's passion and love for the theatre has inspired and enthused so many people to follow their dreams and reach their potential, no matter what that may be.
Inspired
"Personally working with Trevor for a long time, we have grown to love his ways, as quirky as they may be, and his ability to spot a diamond in the rough. Trevor had the ability to get the best out of people, he gave you the confidence, determination and support to be the best you could be.
"Theatre was his life, and his life was a theatre."
Mr Hitchings grew up in St Mawes, moving to London at the age of 18 to study at Guildford School of Acting.
After graduating in the same class as Bill Nighy and Imelda Staunton, he was cast in West End musicals Cats, Evita and Jesus Christ Superstar.
And former Cornish pupils have followed in his footsteps into lead roles in the West End and touring shows throughout the world. His cousin Dee Smith said: "The amateur dramatic world will be a sadder place without him, but his legacy will live on through countless students that have achieved so much because of his passion and determination.
"Trevor and I were best friends. He will be greatly missed."
Mr Hitchings also starred in and directed shows for local amateur dramatics groups including Redruth Amateur Operatic Society Trust (Raost), Truro Amateur Operatic & Dramatic Society and St Blazey Amateur Operatic Society.
Christine Arthur, a friend and member of Raost, said: "He was a lovely man – not afraid to speak his mind. He realised what children and adults could do before they themselves did, and got it out of them. People felt he was indestructible."
Hundreds of tributes poured into Mr Hitchings' Facebook page after he passed away at Kenwyn Nursing Home in Truro surrounded by close friends.
Michelle Moses, a friend and former co-star, wrote: "I could not look him direct in the eyes during the performances as I would have giggled. We had great fun. I shall miss his chats and his fun direction.
"My daughters, Melissa and Alana, will miss him greatly too, as they have been members of Playrite for a few years."
Kirsty Smith, a friend and colleague from Playrite Theatre School, said: "Trevor was a father figure for me and gave me the chance to do what I love, and transformed me into a wonderful teacher. I've almost finished my teacher training and it is down to him."
Mr Hitchings's funeral will take place on May 2 at 3.30pm in Truro Cathedral, followed by a celebration of his life at Bohella Bar in St Mawes.
It has been requested that those who attend wear colourful attire.
