The Hospital Players

The Hospital Players, established in 1943, are the longest-running amateur dramatics group in Scunthorpe, North Lincolnshire. Over the years, they have staged over 230 productions. They perform two shows a year at the Plowright Theatre, showcasing a variety of plays and productions.

When rehearsing for a production, the group aims to meet 2-3 times a week between 7.30pm - 9.30pm however the days are interchangeable and depends on the availability of the cast and crew. Please contact the group directly for more information on rehearsal and performance times.

Known for their friendly and welcoming atmosphere, the group encourages members to participate both on and off stage. From acting and directing to set design and costume making, there are numerous opportunities for members to contribute and develop new skills.

Being part of an amateur dramatics society like The Hospital Players offers numerous benefits, particularly for mental health. Engaging in creative activities such as acting and stage production can significantly reduce stress and anxiety by providing a constructive outlet for emotions. The sense of community and teamwork fosters strong social connections, which are crucial for emotional well-being. Additionally, the process of learning lines, rehearsing, and performing can boost self-confidence and provide a sense of accomplishment. Overall, participating in amateur dramatics can enhance mental health and well-being through creativity, social interaction, and personal growth.

There is much more to do in an amateur dramatics society than just acting. Members can get involved in set design, creating the visual backdrop for the performances, which can be a highly rewarding and creative endeavour. Working on props involves crafting and sourcing items that bring authenticity to the play, stimulating creativity and problem-solving skills. Lighting and sound are crucial for setting the mood and enhancing the audience’s experience, requiring technical skills and precision. Working backstage, managing the flow of the performance, and ensuring everything runs smoothly can be incredibly fulfilling. Each of these roles provides a sense of purpose and achievement, contributing to mental well-being by fostering a sense of belonging, enhancing self-esteem, and offering a productive way to channel energy and creativity.

Backstage Roles:

Being part of a society of like-minded individuals also has significant benefits. It creates a supportive environment where members can share their passion for theatre and learn from each other. This camaraderie helps build lasting friendships and a sense of community, which can be incredibly comforting and motivating. The shared experiences and collective efforts towards a common goal can enhance feelings of connectedness and reduce feelings of isolation, further promoting mental health and overall well-being.

The Hospital Players also give back to the community by making regular donations to the Scunthorpe Hospital League of Friends charity, supporting local healthcare services and fostering a sense of community involvement.

In summary, The Hospital Players offer a rich and varied experience that goes beyond acting, providing numerous opportunities for personal growth and mental well-being. Whether you’re on stage or behind the scenes, being part of this community can be a deeply rewarding and enriching experience. The combination of creative expression, technical skills, and social interaction makes amateur dramatics a powerful tool for enhancing mental health and fostering a sense of belonging and accomplishment.

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Service contact details

Cost

  • £15-£30 Annual subscription fees with concessions for students and low income

Service provider

LiveWell Logo The Hospital Players

The Hospital Players are the longest running amateur dramatic group in Scunthorpe, North Lincolnshire, originally opening the tabs in 1943. The Hospital Players currently put on 3 shows a year at Scunthorpe's Plowright Theatre. We are a very friendly amateur dramatics group. As a group we pride ourselves on giving the best performances possible, but we think it's very important to have fun along the way! 2023 marks the 80th anniversary of our first production, The Admirable Crichton. You can learn all about our interesting history here. The Hospital Players rehearse at the Grange Farm Community Centre in Scunthorpe. Putting on a play involves so much more than rehearsing a script. As a group we design and build our own sets; design, record and edit our own sound and lighting plot. We write, film and edit our own trailers, design the posters, source and sometimes make the costumes, and so much more! There are plenty of things to get involved with on and off the stage, and we always welcome new members to the group. So if you are 16+ and looking to join a fun, exciting and friendly group then look no further. You can be as involved as you want to be! If you are interested in becoming a Hospital Player please visit the Contact part of the website.

Session details

  • Grange Farm Hobbies Centre

    Wesley Road
    Scunthorpe
    DN16 1SA

    • Weekly on Monday from 19:30 to 21:30
    • Weekly on Tuesday from 19:30 to 21:30
    • Weekly on Wednesday from 19:30 to 21:30
    • Weekly on Thursday from 19:30 to 21:30
    • Weekly on Friday from 19:30 to 21:30