Nearly Sixty Years Young - And Still Going Strong
Haxby Players 1946 - 2004
Currently one of the oldest Amateur Dramatic Societies in the York Area, Haxby Players have continued to present York audiences with a selection of quality plays, ranging from the classics to modern comedies and thrillers.
Life began in 1946 when the local W.I. decided to branch out and present 3 one act plays in the former Wiggington Recreation Hall (Then a wooded hut, later destroyed by fire). We started with a budget of £20 and footlights made out of old milk tins. This active group eventually became an evening class under the direction of Miss Doreen Birkenshaw. Following the loss of the Wiggington Recreation Hall, the Evening Institute, as they were now known, moved to the Memorial Hall, where they stayed until the hall underwent major refurbishment.
During the period of alteration, the Haxby Players, as they were now known, performed plays in the round at the Ralph Butterfield School. To mark the 21st anniversary, and the 50th production, in 1967, one of the members, John Reynolds wrote a play called "Paperchase" which was presented in the Memorial Hall. The stage manager for many years was the late Tony Zimmermann.
Over the years the society has enjoyed considerable success in festivals, having being awarded trophies in Scarborough and Wharfedale, and also in the All England Drama Festival. The present Honorary President, Mr Gerald Hansom, who was one of the original members from 1947, still actively supports the players.
Whilst many members come and go, there are still a good number of faces, whom the public have associated with Haxby Players for many, many years. The twice yearly productions, in Spring and Autumn, are still eagerly awaited by the residents of Haxby and Wiggington.
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