Merseyside – In a heartwarming tale of resilience and triumph over adversity, Christopher Lee-Power emerges as an inspiring figure in the world of acting. Born in Birkenhead near Liverpool, Christopher’s early life was marked by profound challenges that shaped his journey to success.
Violence and speech problems made for a difficult childhood
Raised in a working-class family in a modest two-bedroom flat above a taxi service, Christopher’s childhood was fraught with difficulties. “We had no bath and washed in the Belfast sink. Our toilet was outside,” he recalls. Sharing a bedroom with his brother and two sisters, his early years were tough, but they instilled a resilience that would later define his life.
The early 1970s brought unimaginable tragedy when Christopher’s father and his friend were attacked in their home. His father was stabbed, and his friend was murdered. Justice was eventually served, but the incident left an indelible mark on the young Christopher and his family.
Diagnosed with hyperactivity, speech problems, and a lack of coordination, Christopher was sent to a children’s hospital where he endured speech therapy and medication, but also the harsh reality of being placed in a restraint jacket. “I hated being there,” he recounts. His father’s daring act of cutting him free with a Stanley knife marked the beginning of a long battle to reclaim his childhood.
Acting on stage was an escape from academia
Struggling academically and socially, Christopher found solace on the school stage, a prelude to his future career. Leaving school without qualifications, he faced further hardships, including battles with drinking and self-harm. Yet, a pivotal moment came when he attended a performing arts college and met Ron Gittins, a mentor who introduced him to the world of acting as well as attending a local church.
Under Ron’s guidance, Christopher honed his skills, developing his voice and reading abilities. His journey took him to Butlins as a Red Coat, a brief stint that ended due to homesickness but fueled his determination to succeed.
Despite facing discrimination for his voice, Christopher persevered, securing a place at Richmond Drama School and later attending a course at RADA. His career blossomed, with roles in many Shakespeare plays and appearances on BBC, ITV, and Channel 4. Notable performances include playing the General in BAFTA director Christopher Swann’s play One Night, Minister of Defence in The Last Exodus, Doctor Langford in The Hunt for Michael Myers and Brian Leveson in Happiness – The Ken Dodd Story.
Performing is in his blood
“My mum and dad were entertainers,” Christopher shares fondly. “They traveled around with a drummer and pianist. My mum sang country and western songs, and I have fond memories of her singing ‘Blanket on the Ground’ by Billie Jo Spears. My dad, dressed in a compare suit, also sang.” Their passion for performance undoubtedly influenced Christopher’s path.
However, his journey wasn’t without personal struggles. “When I left drama school, I suffered from panic attacks and anxiety, which was difficult,” he admits. “But with the help of an organisation called No Panic, I was able to move forward as an actor. It’s important to be open about your mental health.”
Christopher’s personal life is marked by both joy and sorrow. Married for 21 years with a son, he has faced the loss of his sister to cancer and his father to COPD. “Watching the people I love die was horrible. I tried everything I could to help them, but sadly, I felt I had failed,” he reflects.
His charity is his other passion
Beyond acting, Christopher channels his passion into philanthropy through The Power Foundation For Young People, a charity he founded to provide young individuals with opportunities to learn new skills and work with professionals.
Christopher Lee-Power’s journey from a challenging childhood to the heights of acting is a testament to the power of resilience, determination, and the human spirit. His story continues to inspire and uplift, demonstrating that no matter the obstacles, dreams can indeed be realised.
Christopher has just finished performing in The Island as The Maker at The Floral Pavilion, he also wrapped on a new film called Our Country as Tony.
Next performance
He can next be seen as the Narrator in “On The Banks Of The Royal Blue Mersey” at Hope Street Theatre between 6th-9th November . The comical history of the blues.
