History
Verwood Pantomime Society began in 1984 and was started by 3 couples who were members of the local Drama Society for those wanting a lighter form of entertainment. They each donated £5 and held jumble sales etc to raise enough money to put on their first show which was in 1985 and was Mother Goose.
Over the years the Society has won many awards, 25 of which were in the Dorset Village Pantomime Competitions including the Best Large Village Pantomime and Runner Up in the Best Wardrobe for our Snow White and the 7 Dwarfs.
Most Rehearsals and all shows were held in the Memorial Hall until 2007 when The Hub was built and as growing Membership numbers meant we had almost outgrown the hall Our Committee asked the Members to vote on whether to stay or move to The Hub. By an almost unanimous vote the decision was made to move to The Hub where the facilities of a box office, tiered seating and purpose made dressing rooms were just too good to miss.
In 2009 VPS celebrated its 25th anniversary with a lavish production of Cinderella, complete with a real miniature Shetland pony to pull Cinderella’s coach. We celebrate our 40th anniversary this year, and plans are being made to hold a show which will justifiably reflect the success of our wonderful Society within the local community
We currently have 77 members and Friends of the Society, and since our formation in 1984, we have now given over 280 performances from 38 pantomimes and other
shows. Our membership and performances are open to everyone and provide opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to take part, including a very vibrant
junior section (age 11+).
VPS tries to play its full part within the local community, and takes part in community
events such as the Rustic Fayre and Verwood Carnival. After show collections are
also held, and we have raised many thousands of pounds for local charities and
good causes – see the Fundraising section of the website for details.
New members are always welcome, whether their desire is to “tread the boards”, to provide assistance backstage or to welcome people at Front of House. If you want to know more, please get in touch.
