ONE of Hook’s most cherished groups has turned 30 and will be putting on a trademark performance to mark the occasion.

Amateur dramatics group Hook Players have been entertaining the area since 1985 with a vast range of plays and pantomimes.

With 68 productions under their belt, including hits such as Calendar Girls and Jack and the Beanstalk, a show they won a national award for, the Hook group has plenty of reasons to smile as the Players reflect on their 30th birthday.

In February 1985, Pat and Mike Hooper, who had recently moved to the area received a knock on the door, a story Pat recalls being the start of the group.

“A man called Warwick Howe stood there to welcome us and happened to mention that he and some others were starting up a local amateur dramatics group. We went to a meeting in a room at Hook School.

“After a few meetings, we did our first rehearsal of our first production; A Tomb with a View. It took 18 months of rehearsals before our very first opening night in 1986. Ever since then, Hook Players has produced two shows a year.”

Warwick is still very much involved in Hook Players, along with Pat and Mike, who were the first group to perform on the old Elizabeth Hall stage and the first to appear in the new hall opened in 2008.

Mr Howe continued the story of the group’s creation, recalling their very first production: “In 1986, I had the privilege of delivering the first ever Hook Players’ line on stage; ‘cough, cough. Damn fog!’

“Back then, I had to have make-up applied to make me look the age I am in reality today!

“I have seen many members come and go but the faith that we had those 30 years ago has proved itself. We are still a thriving society giving live theatre to the community and I trust I will be part of Hook Players for many years to come.”

The three stalwarts have been there every step of the way in more ways than one with their roles over the 30 years ranging from playing the front half of animal costumes to being chairmen and directors.

Ros Shepherd joined Hook Players in 1992: “I went to a cheese and wine evening and ended up as Wicked Stepmother in the pantomime.

“My two proudest moments have been receiving a nomination for best actress at the Farnborough Festival for Crossed Lines, and an Accolade of Excellence from NODA (National Operatic and Dramatic Association) when I directed Jack and the Beanstalk.”

One of the Hook Players’ most notable shows in their 30-year history is the production of Calendar Girls.

With all the profit going to charity, the show touched the hearts of the cast, crew and community.

Jennie Barr, who has been with the group for 19 years, remembers the play fondly: “My favourite memory (so far!) was playing ‘Chris’ in Calendar Girls. Due to the subject matter, it was a very emotional experience but the script was so well written it was much enjoyed by cast, crew and audience.”

Wilma Jordan, a member since 2005 also pinpoints the show as one of her favourites and is looking forward to the latest production.

“I’ve been a witch – my children said I would be perfect- Miss Marple and a bossy leader in Calendar Girls. I’m very proud to be in the next production, Who’s In Bed With The Butler, as Agnes - a slightly doddery older lady with an interesting pet.”

The celebratory 30th birthday production of Who’s in Bed with the Butler premiered last night (Thursday) with further performances today (Friday) and tomorrow.

The shows start at 7.15pm at Elizabeth Hall, Hook, with director Graeme Cooper adding: “There are no hidden messages. No deep meanings. It’s just naughty but nice fun and laughter.”

Tickets are still on sale with more information to be found at www.hookplay

ers.co.uk/activeproduction.