St John’s Church, now deconsecrated, converted into a theatre with raked seating,
served as the Club’s permanent home from 1993 until 2016
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Our History
EXHunters Hill Theatre held its first committee meeting in September 1930 and has never looked back. Originally called the Hunters Hill Play Reading and Dramatic Club (quite a mouthful), it has been performing continuously in the district ever since. Over the years the productions have been staged in a variety of venues from the Town Hall to church halls and at the little Stables Theatre in Clifton, Woolwich Road. In the mid 1970's, the opportunity came to move into St John's Church Hall, Woolwich, where a vibrant and welcoming theatre was created and enjoyed by theatre members and audiences alike.
The dream was shattered in the early hours of December 2, 1993, when vandals set fire to the heritage-listed timber hall and destroyed it totally, including the theatre's sets, props and extensive wardrobe of costumes. All that was left was a steel filing cabinet (still in use, if somewhat battle-scarred). However, the show must go on, and Hunters Hill Theatre saw to it that nothing - even arson - would stop it. Friends and neighbours donated more props and costumes and the Anglican Parish Church of Hunters Hill and the Uniting Church at Gladesville gave us venues for productions until, in August 1995, our new theatre at the now deconsecrated St John's Church, Woolwich, was opened with a flourish by Colleen Clifford, much loved star both here and in London's West End and a long-time friend of Hunters Hill Theatre. Much of the work in transforming the old church into an attractive theatre with raked auditorium, comfortable seats and great acoustics was done by many of the members. Air conditioning was subsequently installed and improved sound and lighting facilities ensured every production could work its magic for the theatre-loving audiences and the dedicated members who make up the cast and crew for each play. Sadly, in December 2016 the Anglican Church sold our beautiful building, but we are now proud to perform our productions at CLUB RYDE EX , 728 Victoria Road, Ryde. |
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Our Committee
President
Chrissie McIntyre Vice President Annabel Norris Treasurer Patrick Neale Committee Members Carol Keeble Liz Grindley Penelope Korths Julie Mathers Kimberlea Smith |
DONATE TO HUNTERS HILL THEATRE
DONATE TO HUNTERS HILL THEATRE
As a small, not for profit organisation our survival is reliant on ticket sales and your amazing support. Your donations not only help bring our productions to life on stage but enable us to nurture emerging talent and facilitate education programs.
You can be part of our PROSCENIUM PROGRAMME by donating within the following categories. Your name will be proudly displayed at the entrance to the Theatre as an acknowledgement of your generosity.
OVATION - $200
CENTRE STAGE - $150
SPOTLIGHT - $100
If you’re able to, please consider joining our community of valued supporters. Donations of $2+ are tax deductible and will help us continue to share exceptional performances.
Leaving a gift in your Will is a genuine way to leave a legacy that will enrich the cultural life for future generations and make a lasting contribution for many years to come. Your support, large or small, plays an invaluable role to ensure our future stays bright and is a wonderful way to celebrate the important part Hunters Hill Theatre has played in your life. Please contact us as [email protected]
As a small, not for profit organisation our survival is reliant on ticket sales and your amazing support. Your donations not only help bring our productions to life on stage but enable us to nurture emerging talent and facilitate education programs.
You can be part of our PROSCENIUM PROGRAMME by donating within the following categories. Your name will be proudly displayed at the entrance to the Theatre as an acknowledgement of your generosity.
OVATION - $200
CENTRE STAGE - $150
SPOTLIGHT - $100
If you’re able to, please consider joining our community of valued supporters. Donations of $2+ are tax deductible and will help us continue to share exceptional performances.
Leaving a gift in your Will is a genuine way to leave a legacy that will enrich the cultural life for future generations and make a lasting contribution for many years to come. Your support, large or small, plays an invaluable role to ensure our future stays bright and is a wonderful way to celebrate the important part Hunters Hill Theatre has played in your life. Please contact us as [email protected]