ABOUT THE CURTAIN RAISERS
Our History
In 1965 a group of local enthusiasts performed a one-off show for a local school to raise money for new stage curtains. They had so much fun that they decided to put on a show on a regular basis and in 1968 the Curtain Raisers were born. In the early days the club was very much a family affair, involving local residents Alex Kerr, his wife and family along with resident pianist Betty Nicholson and her children, plus sister Irene who served as the club secretary for over 20 years.
Onslow Village remains the home of the Curtain Raisers and we aim to perform there at least once a year. We are lucky enough to own 'The Barn', located in the village and housing our props, scenery and costumes along with a small rehearsal room.
In 1996 the Curtain Raisers joined other local groups to raise money for GATA (Guildford Amateur Theatre Association) to provide equipment for a new local amateur theatre. In 1997 The Electric Theatre opened and in 1998 we made our debut there with a fantastic performance of the musical Godspell. We perform regularly at The Electric, staging both musicals and plays. We are also regular competitors in the Guildford Drama Festival, entering for the first time in 2002 with an excerpt from Shakers Restirred by John Godber. In 2003 our production of Spoonface Steinberg won an award for 'Best Actress'.
How we operate
A committee comprising a chairperson, secretary, treasurer and other members runs the club on behalf of members. We meet approximately every 6 weeks to discuss the general running of the club, forthcoming productions, current productions and social events. The committee is elected each year at our Annual General Meeting which takes place in March. The Curtain Raisers encourage members to come forward with suggestions and ideas for productions, social events and new initiatives.
The current committee are:
Mandy Grealis - Chairperson
Rita Rowland - Secretary
Gemma Hodgson - Treasurer
Committee members: Jane Gallacher, Amy Scott, Fiona Gallacher, Mark lloyd, Kevin Meader
Greenroom Gossip is our quarterly newsletter which provides members with details of what is happening in the club and future plans.