Chris Loake’s performing experience began with Scout Gang Shows, followed by Gilbert and Sullivan operetta roles, including Pish Tush and Pooh Bah (Mikado), Despard Murgatroyd (Ruddygore) and The Usher (Trial by Jury). Theatre performances include Peter Gilpin in Coward’s ‘Hands Across the Sea’, as well as appearances in revue; Chris co-wrote and performed in ‘A Partly Political Broadcast’ by the Red Penguins at Salisbury Cathedral Creation Festival.

Opera chorus appearances include Donizetti ‘Anna Bolena’ conducted by Brad Cohen, Catalani ‘La Wally’ under David Lloyd-Jones, Rossini ‘Ermione’ and Verdi ‘Giovanna d’Arco’ both conducted by Dominic Wheeler. He has sung in choruses at the Royal Albert Hall, performing Berlioz ‘Te Deum’ and Puccini ‘Messa di Gloria’. He continues to sing regularly as a cantor at the Church of Saints Mary and Joseph in Boxmoor.

Chris’s arts administration career started at English National Opera, where he first met Simon Fletcher; he became a duty house manager at ENO, whilst by day working as an artist manager for a classical agency, managing singers, conductors, instrumental soloists and ensembles. Subsequently he was general manager of Milton Keynes City Orchestra, before moving into consultancy for organisations including Birmingham Arts Marketing and Chamber Orchestra Anglia.

Chris is an Honorary Associate of the Royal Academy of Music, where he currently oversees the administration of principal study departments. He was chairman of the Simon Fletcher Charitable Trust until January 2010, and is a member of the Secular Franciscan Order.