HOW WE GOT HERE ……..
In September 1964 a group of inexperienced but enthusiastic people boldly announced the formation of “Whitley Bay Amateur Pantomime Society.” The Chairman and his wife (Ernie & Marjorie Scorer) had close connections with Whitley Bay Scouting, which proved of tremendous importance in turning a vision into reality.
The only North East Theatre with a traditional pantomime that year was the Civic Theatre, Darlington, so it was felt the venture had a reasonable chance of success. With no money and even less experience of a major show but determined to succeed, plans went ahead for “Aladdin” at the now demolished Priory Theatre, Whitley Bay from 11th to 16th January 1965. All the costumes were home-made and many were indeed wonderful creations. Scenery and props were spectacular and the BBC was persuaded to give the Pantomime a spot in their local TV Magazine programme.
The choreographer was Olive M. D. Harper, Musical Director Fred Knowles and the Society’s first President was J. B. Cairncross.
It would take a couple of pages to mention all the people who helped put on those early shows and who are sadly no longer with us. Suffice to say they will never be forgotten and the tremendously high standards they set continue to be maintained. Ten Pantomimes were presented at the Priory Theatre but in 1974, after rehearsals had commenced for “Robinson Crusoe” the Theatre was closed and some fast and furious adjustments were needed at short notice, to adapt the show to the much larger Playhouse stage where the Pantomime duly appeared in January 1975. We have remained at Whitley Bay Playhouse with the emphasis firmly on tradition, directing entertainment at children in our audiences and involving them in the action as much as possible. After all, Pantomime is very often their first experience of live Theatre, especially in today’s TV/Computer age.
Rehearsals commence weekly from September until the end of October and then twice weekly until January. There is a Walk On at the Theatre in December and a full Dress Rehearsal on the Sunday before opening night. Whilst the word “Amateur” no longer forms part of the Society’s name, all our members are volunteers. We have some families with three generations all taking part and many of our members also belong to Whitley Bay Operatic Society, Tynemouth Operatic Society, St Andrew’s G&S Whitley Bay Theatre Club and Tynemouth Theatre Club.
The main Aims and Objectives of the Society are:
To promote public education and interest in theatre, particularly pantomime and further development of public appreciation by the presentation of an annual pantomime.
To present from time to time, such other theatrical productions as the Executive Committee decides.
To promote the study and development of the arts and skills associated with the pantomime tradition.
To benefit charitable bodies out of funds that may become surplus to the requirements of the Society as decided at the Annual General Meeting by a majority of members present and voting.
To promote related social related social events on behalf of the membership.
Our Society has in place a Child Protection Policy. A copy of the four page document is available from our Secretary.
Our 2011 Production “Cinderella” resulted in £1,000.00 being donated to various local charities.
