Our Story
Our History
From a post-war reformation to an award-winning society, Theatrecraft has been part of Herne Bay's cultural life for over seventy-five years.
Theatrecraft grew from the gap left when The Mask Players, a pre-1939 theatrical group, ceased operating during the Second World War and never resumed. In 1948 the William Askew Players reformed under the Theatrecraft name and have been on stage ever since.
- 1948
On 27 May, the William Askew Players reform as Theatrecraft, chaired by R.A. Addyes-Scott, with Frances Green as first president. The company debuts with The Barretts of Wimpole Street.
- 1953
Having borrowed £30 per production from members in the early years, the society reaches financial independence. The treasurer inherits a balance of £4.17.6, and no further loans are needed.
- 1957
At the request of the Urban District Council, Theatrecraft begins presenting an annual Christmas pantomime, a tradition that continues to this day.
- 1964
Modern musicals join the repertoire, setting the pattern we still follow: a play, a musical and a pantomime each year.
Today Theatrecraft is an award-winning amateur dramatic society, regularly reviewed by NODA (the National Operatic & Dramatic Association) and proud to entertain audiences across Herne Bay and the wider Kent coast.