DOUGLAS Bennett, chairman of the Jamaica Musical Theatre Company (JMTC), died in the University Hospital of the West Indies in St Andrew on Monday morning. He was 88.

Playwright David Tulloch confirmed Bennett’s death to the Jamaica Observer. He describes the late chairman as selfless.

“He was instrumental in me starting my career. When I joined the JMTC at 14, he was the chairman… He’s a legend, caring, and believes in your talent. He was selfless,” Tulloch told the Observer.

The Scottish-born Bennett, who has lived in Jamaica for more than 50 years, was the musical director for JMTC and the Jamaica Junior Theatre.

In a 2014 interview with the Observer, Bennett said he was proud of the state of Jamaican theatre and the fact that there is a set of young Jamaicans who are ready to take up the mantle.

“Jamaicans can be proud of our local theatre. It is exciting, vibrant and varied. It showcases all aspects of Jamaican life and affords us the opportunity to be exposed. I am proud to have been associated with theatre over the years,” said Bennett.

In 2014, he was recognised for his seminal contribution to to the development of theatre in Jamaica with an Order of Distinction — Commander class.

— Brian Bonitto