Playgoers Society of Dartington Hall
Welcome to Dartington Playgoers
We've been making theatre in and around Dartington (south Devon) for over 70 years. We are committed to creating the best shows we can and presenting our audiences with dynamic, imaginative and engaging productions.
Until now, we've staged three shows a year in the studio spaces at Dartington Hall, along with a series of rehearsed readings and other theatrical events at venues including the Great Hall, Bogan House and Totnes Library.
We also exist to provide opportunities in acting, directing, technical and front of house management. We are always looking for new people to join us and develop their theatre skills.
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Playgoers have just been informed by Dartington Trust that the Lower Close studios are to be leased to a long-term tenant from the end of this year. This would mean that there is no longer a home for Playgoers on the estate, bringing to an end nearly 80 years of history and tradition.
We are determined to continue making theatre in south Devon - please stay in touch, and do contact us with any ideas and suggestions....
What's coming in 2025
Our main summer show this year is The Southbury Child by Stephen Beresford. The play premiered to considerable acclaim at the Bridge Theatre in 2022.
With local connections, "Stephen Beresford’s very funny new play is a deeply humane exploration of family, faith, tradition and tolerance in a rapidly changing world."
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We're delighted to welcome Jeremy Balfour back as director. Jeremy has many years experience of teaching theatre at all levels, and last directed Macbeth for Playgoers in 2011. ​
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One performance will take place at 7.30pm, 21st June at the Flavel in Dartmouth: Book here​
Then 26th-28th June, including a matinee, at Totnes Civic Hall: Book here
What else...?
We are excited to be hosting a Playgoers Stage in the Seven Stars Ballroom for the Totnes Fringe Festival​, which will feature a production of Education, Education, Education. We are still looking for cast for this play - email Jody if you would like to be involved.
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Autumn: One Million Tiny Plays (tbc)
Make sure you're on our mailing list for news and updates, and follow us on Facebook....
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Audience at June's sell-out production of Jerusalem by Jez Butterworth. An open-air performance on the Dartington estate.
Join us...
Our members have some challenging decisions to make in 2025, but we're still enthusiastic about making theatre. Why not join Playgoers now? You'll be able to participate in all our activities, including workshops and social events. Or contact us to be added to our mailing list and be the first to know of our plans...
Everyone is welcome to our AGM - 23rd February 2025. Join the mailing list now...!
In a time of change and uncertainty at the Dartington Hall Trust, we felt it would be a good time to document a history of the Playgoers. Committee member Zoe, with the help of Peter Tysoe, has made a start. Please read her article here, and if you have any additions, comments or corrections, we'd love to hear from you...