THE HURLINGHAM PLAYERS

Hoorah for the Players’ bowls evening, the annual summer gathering of Hurlingham Players, young and old, when we take a break from our busy schedule of producing shows to meet for a drink and a game of bowls.

Why a group of people, initially drawn together by their love of loitering about backstage in the dark wearing costumes, should choose to celebrate their camaraderie by going outside in the sunshine and playing bowls, I’m not quite sure, but here we are. Perhaps the tennis players celebrate their fellowship by rustling up a bit of Gilbert and Sullivan on a winter evening.

For my part, I had never really played bowls before I joined the Hurlingham Players, and I’m slightly more confused about the rules than before I started, as everyone seems to have their own. The rules for the Queen of Heart’s croquet match from Alice in Wonderland, with which we are more familiar, having produced it twice, were slightly clearer.

I didn’t bowl this year and so was able to admire the skill with which teams were drawn up by our fantastic organiser, Tony Gamble, who deftly combined the young and athletic with the more experienced costume department. We laughed, we played, a small dog got loose on the pitch and scared the bejeezus out of everyone and, in the end, Tony awarded simply the most hideous trophy to the losing team. Hoorah for Tony and his lovely wife, Christine, without whom we might not have discovered how much fun you can have on a bowling green.

KATE FAZAKERLEY

The trophy no one wants!

The trophy no one wants!

What’s it all about?

Burt Bacharach, a name you might not know, but you’ve definitely heard his music. The legendary American singer, songwriter and composer, left an indelible mark on the music industry. With a career spanning over six decades, Bacharach’s innovative sound captivated audiences worldwide.

Born in 1928 in Kansas City, Missouri, Bacharach began his musical journey as a pianist and arranger for various artists, including Vic Damone and Peggy Lee. However, it was his collaboration with lyricist Hal David that led to some of his most iconic works. From classics like What the World Needs Now Is Love and Close to You, to I Say a Little Prayer, eternalised by the late Aretha Franklin, Bacharach and David successfully created songs that aren’t just catchy but also tell compelling stories.

Bacharach’s work influenced generations of musicians and despite his passing in 2023, his legacy continues to inspire new generations of music lovers worldwide. Throughout his career, Bacharach won numerous awards, including multiple Grammys, an Academy Award, and a place in the Songwriters’ Hall of Fame. From Thursday 21 to Saturday 23 November, the Hurlingham Players will pay tribute to Bacharach’s remarkable life and music with a show entitled ‘Magic Moments – the Music of Burt Bacharach’, featuring his most beloved songs. Although the Mulgrave Theatre may be closed, we most definitely are not, and we look forward to welcoming you to this show in a few months’ time. So, whether you’re a long-time fan or just discovering his work, this show promises to be a memorable celebration of Burt Bacharach’s timeless appeal. Don’t miss it!

LUCA BOLTON

Players’ Plans

After the March production of Terry Pratchett’s Wyrd Sisters, the Players presented A Very British Show, devised and directed by Tony de Lacey, in the Mulgrave Theatre. I am delighted that audience feedback was very good.

This was the last show before the closure of the Mulgrave Theatre in June, for the East Wing development. During this time, the Players plan to remain very active and to bring productions in smaller venues around the Club, when available.

Currently those plans include a Play Reading on Tuesday 24 September, in the Reading Room, arranged by Thalia Moore, and ‘Magic Moments’, a show dedicated to the songs of Burt Bacharach, on Thursday 21 to Saturday 23 November in the Dining Room, directed by Jen Jaques and Luca Bolton. See above for more information.

I am standing down as Chair of the Players at the AGM. I am delighted that Tony de Lacey will be taking over from me and I wish him every success.

PETER VOISEY, CHAIR, PLAYERS