A CENTURY OF PERFORMANCE

Hull Playgoers' Society had its origins in 1901. Founded as the Hull Shakespeare Society, in 1921 it joined forces with the recently-formed Playgoers' Society, resulting in the establishment of the Hull Shakespeare and Playgoers' Society.

Our name was changed to Hull Playgoers' Society in 1924. Its aim was to 'stimulate interest in the whole art of theatre and become acquainted with the best in modern and classical drama.' The Society gained some attention in 1930 when it presented the world's first modern-dress production of Much Ado About Nothing, at the New Playhouse, Hull.

Some of our members have been with the Society since before the War and well remember past productions in which they starred as youngsters.

In 2001, our centenary year, the Society presented The Canterbury Tales, adapted by Phil Woods, in March. This was a hilarious romp, which aimed to involve as many members of the Society as possible, both on stage and back stage. It was a highly-successful show.

At a special centenary celebration dinner in May, John Godber, playwright and director of Hull Truck Theatre, was our guest speaker, giving a fascinating talk on his view of theatre today.

To round off our celebrations, in November we presented the very popular Noises Off by Michael Frayn. This incredibly demanding show was a huge success, thanks to energetic direction by Vic Chamberlain and Gerald Fox, the athleticism of the cast, and the superb set, constructed by John Andrew and Bill Gorringe, which made creative use of a revolving stage.

It was quite a year! We hope the Society will still be going strong in 2101.