This season represents a special milestone in the history of ʻPlaygoersʼ, Bristolʼs oldest Theatre Club, as 2011/12 marks the clubʼs centenary. Members will, once again, be enjoying the widest possible choice of plays in the form of rehearsed play-readings, and those who wish to take an active part, may have the chance to act, direct or help backstage. Various social events, talks and theatre outings complete the programme. A warm welcome is guaranteed to newcomers and existing members alike. Meetings take place at Newman Hall, Grange Court Road, Westbury-on-Trym, at 7.20 for 7.30 p.m.
Season 2011/2012 Programme
4th October, Tuesday at Newman Hall
ʻTHREE SHORT PLAYSʼ by Jean McConnell.
Directed by Jane Meadowcroft.
These twist-in-the-tail playlets, all set on a seaside promenade, are, by turns, funny and poignant – a gentle opening to our one-hundredth year.
The in-hall bar will be open. Nibbles provided
18th October, Tuesday at Newman Hall
MY BOY JACK by David Haig.
Directed by Jill Piper.
The poem My Boy Jack, written by Rudyard Kipling in 1915, was the inspiration for this moving play.
1st November, Tuesday at Newman Hall
THE YEAR OF MAGICAL THINKING by Joan Didion.
Directed by David March.
First produced in 2007 on Broadway starring Vanessa Redgrave, the play transferred to the National Theatre in 2008.
15th November, Tuesday at Newman Hall Two one act plays
BED AMONG THE LENTILS by Alan Bennett.
Directed by John de Barham.
Susan, the vicarʼs wife, doesnʼt realise itʼs not just the woman in the off-licence, but the whole parish that knows sheʼs on the drink!
WHATʼS IN A NAME by Elizabeth Penny.
Directed by John Peck.
A light-hearted tale – with some surprises!
6th December, Tuesday at Newman Hall
BLITHE SPIRIT by Noël Coward.
Directed by Roger Meadowcroft
Written in 1941, the play remained the longest running comedy in the history of British theatre for three decades thereafter. Dealing with relationships on both sides of the grave, it is an enduring classic!
20th December, Tuesday at Newman Hall
HISS THE VILLAIN by W E Cossons and A R Taylor.
Classic Christmas melodrama!
Mince pies and punch will be served and a collection taken for the clubʼs adopted charity POD. Please give generously!
17th January, Tuesday at Newman Hall
THE PROPOSAL by Anton Chekhov.
Directed by John de Barham.
A MARRIAGE HAS BEEN ARRANGED by Alfred Sutro.
An evening of contrasted one-act comedies.
31st January, Tuesday at Newman Hall
NEVER SO GOOD (A) by Howard Brenton.
Directed by David March.
The left-wing satirist author creates a surprisingly affectionate portrait of the Tory Prime Minister Harold Macmillan. Jeremy Irons starred in the original 2008 staging at the NT.
14th February, Tuesday at Newman Hall
THE CORN IS GREEN by Emlyn Williams.
Directed by Sally Noble.
In a remote Welsh mining village, Miss Moffat starts a school for local boys, one of whom shows great promise – a lovely play!
28th February, Tuesday at Newman Hall
THE WEEKEND by Michael Palin.
Directed by Sylvia Jordan-Shore.
In his first stage play, Michael Palin takes a look at family values, which is not only very funny, but also has a darker side.
13th March, Tuesday at Newman Hall
THE PITMAN PAINTERS (A) by Lee Hall.
Directed by Sally March.
We are very grateful to, and welcome, a number of local artists who have contributed specially painted copies of the originals featured in this play.
Alternatively, if ʻThe Pitman Paintersʼ is unavailable at time of production.
THE CHERRY ORCHARD by Anton Chekhov.
27th March, Tuesday at Newman Hall
HARD TIMES by Stephen Jeffreys/Dickens.
Directed by David March.
Playgoers staged this play at the Redgrave Theatre in 1992 and this adaptation illustrates the best of Charles Dickensʼs humour, drama and excitement.
As has now become traditional, a supper will be served during the interval.
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(A) denotes play with adult content and/or strong language