Mexborough and Swinton Times April 5, 1929

New Mexboro’ Venture.

Catering for the “Average ” Playgoer.

A scheme for the foundation of a Mexbro’ repertory company is the latest development in the amateur theatre in South Yorkshire.

Its principal is Mr Verdi Popple, who has for some years been associated with drama, and who was formerly producer to Mexboro’ D.S. He will be director of the new company and propose to produce in September.

The company’s purpose is to produce ‘popular” plays modern and classic, to appeal to the “average” theatregoer. Shakespeare’ will have a considerable part in its programme. In Mr. Popple’s words, they will be prepared to “tackle any good play.”

Mr. Popple will choose the plays and do the casting and the business affairs will be managed by Dr. J. Forrest Hamilton, who has had experience in that work with the Mexborough. Operatic Society.

It is intended, to form a plan of annual subscriptions in return for which patrons will receive reserved seats for all productions. There will be no executive body and no membership fees. The policy aimed at is monthly or bi-monthly production in the Public Hall and one week in the Hippodrome.

The first play down for production is “The Passing of the Third Floor Back,” to be given late in September. Other plays being considered include “The Dover Road,” “Bill of Divorcement,” a Christmas play (probably “Christmas Carol”), especially for children, and “David Garrick.” Shakespeare will be put on at the Hippodrome: “Richard III.” for three nights, with the other half of the week taken up with another play; “Granite,” with which the Sheffield Repertory Company scored a success recently, perhaps. Something of a comedy nature, such as “It Pays to Advertise,” will follow. Mr. Fogerty will be stage manager and among the local players who may he associated with the movement are Mr. Tom Beech, Mr. J. Snelzrove, Mr. C. Wileman, Mr. Hewan H. Thompson, Messrs. W. and E. Popple, Alice A. .T. Popple, Mrs. F. J. Horne, Mrs.’Gavin and Mrpl. Twigg.

The leaders of the movement consider there is ample scope for such an organisation in Mexborough. Parts in “The Passing of the Third Floor Back” are to be allotted