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The opening production of Mortimer Dramatic Society;
The above is taken from the original archive that was kept between 1951 and 1954. |
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Mortimer Dramatic Society. Mortimer Dramatic Society has been presenting high quality theatre and musical plays, to a professional standard, for the people of Mortimer and North Hampshire for over 50 years.
Mortimer Dramatic Society. Mortimer Dramatic Society has been presenting high quality theatre and musical plays, to a professional standard, for the people of Mortimer and North Hampshire for over 50 years, Mortimer amateur theatre drama dramatic stage plays scripts St. John's Hall, Reading, Basingstoke, MDS
Founded in September 1950, Mortimer Dramatic Society staged its first production on the 12th-13th January 1951; "Painted Sparrows" by Guy Paxton & Edward V. Hoile. Tickets were 1s/6d unreserved but half-a-crown and 3s/6d reserved (7.5p, 12.5p and 17.5p in today's money)...but of course you get cushioned seats nowadays!
After three productions, Mortimer Dramatic Society was able to give £62 to charity, so obviously they were popular with local audiences right from the start. High performance standards and community involvement are criteria in which Mortimer Dramatic Society continues to take pride. In 1953 "Worms Eye View" was performed in aid of Coronation funds. Village events have been regularly supported and in 1977 Mortimer Dramatic Society portrayed Noah's Ark in the Silver Jubilee Procession.
Usually staging three performances each year Mortimer Dramatic Society has about 40 members, roughly divided into thirds - actors, production crew and administration. We have seven current Life Members; life membership is awarded to members who have given consistent and exceptional service and support to The Society for many years. Over the last 15 years six members have progressed to become full Equity members performing in professional regional theatres and the West End.
