1) as far as I know, EL membranes are not usually "cut to shape."  The
   internal phosphors are likely to be damaged by moisture.  There may
   be a special version that IS cut-to-shape - who knows?

2) Assorted EL vendors will typically have "evaluation kits" containing
   drivers and some "standard shape" pieces of EL panel.  If you can get
   by with those shapes, you might be in luck.

3) There are some EL panels available as consumer items.  Nightlights at
   a couple bucks for something a bit smaller than a business card.  Rumor
   has it there are EL detailing strips you can put on your car.

4) random set of panels/drivers appear relatively regularly on the surplus
   market.  Check the usual suspects (IIRC, All Electronics had some.)
   Likewise, some surplus LCD panels may have a built-in EL backlight that
   can be removed (perhaps destroying the LCD, which would be a shame, but
   if that's the cheapest way to get an appropriate sized panel...)

BillW