At it’s core it’s a love story…. When I write, I am constantly referencing how the work would or could be directed and presented. If it’s not achievable in any aspect (casting, staging, cost, selling etc) it’s potentially a lovely idea and story which no one will ever see. I also have an eye on the marketplace because I write stories which I enjoy but hope others will too. I think ‘The Saddleworth Constable’ is […]
By Leslie Kerwin @ Saddleworth Independent (reproduced by permission) “I’VE BEEN involved at the Lyceum and at the Playhouse 2 in Shaw – but this is the place which feels like home.” So says Pauline Walsh, theatre director and long-time member of the Millgate Arts Centre in Delph. Strewn across the stage behind her sits a podium, balcony, and a large banner that reads ‘Degrees for Women’ – the leftovers of the theatre’s latest play, Blue Stockings. But on this one unusual […]
Opening night review of Blue Stocking at the Millgate Arts Centre, Delph.
Dear Members and Friends, There are just three weeks to go before opening night for Jessica Swale’s Blue Stockings; the story of the first female students to attend Girton College Cambridge against a back drop of misogyny and ridicule. (Blood boiling as I think of it!) Of course now is the time when everyone involved is in a flurry of line learning, stage and large props building and painting,, small props collecting etc. etc. For […]
In 1896 Girton College Cambridge was the first college to admit women. If you were a young woman at University in the 1800’s you would face long walks from out of town colleges to attend lecture, mocked by other students and teachers, forced to sit at the back, have your work left unmarked or rejected, denied entry into lectures as tutors would deem you unworthy of their time, humiliated in the street and as universities […]
Review by Gemma Carter The Saddleworth Players have delivered a gripping and assured production of Wait Until Dark at the Millgate Arts Centre, a masterclass in tension that keeps audiences on edge from start to finish. Originally a West End and Broadway hit, this expertly constructed thriller wastes no time drawing the audience into its web. For those unfamiliar with the story (as I was), the plot unfolds unpredictably. A trio of criminals, sinister con […]
Dear Players and Friends, I hope you all had an enjoyable Easter and were able to make the most of the improving weather. Saying that, I know you’re a hardy lot—supporting the shows, concerts and films at the Millgate despite the driving rain and sub-zero temperatures. Back stage we’ve definitely felt the benefit of the improved insulation and radiators. I don’t think we’ve killed off any stage managers or prompts at all this Season. 2025-26 […]
Review of Once Upon a Time in Wigan by Mick Martin directed by Mark Rosenthall What a wonderful evening we spent watching this play at Saddleworth Players, located in the lovely Millgate Arts Centre. We were welcomed by friendly front of house staff and directed into the beautiful auditorium which is a complete sell out for the entire production. The pre play announcement was amusing and entirely in keeping with the era of the play […]
Dear Members, So —we have a sold out show on our hands! Once Upon A Time in Wigan by Mick Martin will be playing to a packed house from the 7th to 14th February. It’s a gritty tale told by a committed team with an amazing soundtrack. It has energy and heart and feels like a very fresh look back into the roots of the Northern Soul culture. Reflective of the time and absolutely in […]
Dear Players and Friends, In less than two weeks the curtains will open on Jessica Swale’s bawdy romp of a play, Nell Gwynn, which will be a feast for the eyes and ears as we travel back in time to the court of King Charles II and to the rough and ready world of the newly opened theatres. It’s a huge undertaking, a massive, talented cast and crew with music and singing alongside the drama. […]