24 Feb 2012
	Emaus Variety Spectacular

Philip Ashley started singing and stage performing at school and has continued his work in entertainment ever since.

Philip holds qualifications in business management, singing, a BSc in Youth Work and Social Policy, and also holds a professional teaching qualification.

After leaving College he continued his theatrical training in a large number of amateur dramatic and operatic groups, while working as a hotel manager in Central London, and later as the Principal Youth Officer for St. John Ambulance in Bedfordshire.

His professional theatrical career began at the Bedford Corn Exchange as a lighting technician, and provided valuable experience and the opportunity to work with seasoned professionals such as Danny La Rue, Jess Conrad, Richard Stilgoe and Peter Skellen. A multi-purpose venue such as the Corn Exchange meant Philip learnt to create a host of effects and atmospheres for all types of production. These ranged from the "Chippendales" through to "Hinge & Bracket", for which Philip was responsible.

Philip has also worked for a couple of other firms working on sound & lighting for outside music festivals, and also in other backstage capacities on a number of stage shows, encompassing all the roles that go into running a theatre.

As a Producer, responsible for the overall running of a production, Philip has produced 25 shows including stage musicals, revues and concerts. Following on from his work with the charity organisation, St John Ambulance, Philip uses some of his shows to raise money for local charities, in particular youth organisations.

Since moving to Spain Philip has formed a number of groups capable of different styles of performance including an amatuer theatre group called "Sounds Familiar". His portfolio also includes two professional groups. "Amadeus" is a small group of singers performing musical and variety shows with their own twist. The other is a cabaret trio "Menage a Trois" performing songs from the shows, easy listening and dance music in restaurants and at parties.

Philip also works with other entertainers and groups to create shows to suit a variety of tastes, or to work in a specific capacity such as Musical Director, Sound & Lighting engineer, or any other position which requires his skills.