Lionel Perez, teacher and veteran of local theatre, dies at 80

The unexpected death of well-known and colourful local personality Lionel Perez removes from the local scene a singular character and one of the few remaining men who owned and wore a collection of colourful bow ties as well as walking sticks. Mr Perez died on Tuesday night at the age of 80.

A retired teacher of history, art and drama at Bayside Comprehensive School, he always took a keen interest in theatrical activities, especially dance drama. He was a regular contributor to the local drama scene and directed plays for the Gibraltar Drama Festival as part of the Alpha Group which he helped to create.

He was involved in numerous productions – dance productions at the Bayside Drama Studio - and events over the years. Many will recall his two productions of Jesus Christ Superstar staged at St Michael’s Cave and the Alameda Open Air Theatre years apart.

At all times outspoken, as when he placed before the public his complaints about aspects of the specialist medical services, his presence in the community will be missed.