A Brief History of Our Society
1918 saw the end of the war to end all wars
1918 saw the formation of what was to become Spenborough Amateurs.
In a bid to bring the Cleckheaton community closer together, after four years of uncertainty, a group of members of the parish church, St. John’s, formed the town’s first amateur operatic & dramatic society.
Aladdin & Out 1918
Our First Ever Production
St John's Church, Cleckheaton
Cleckheaton was renowned for its music and soon an orchestra was formed from local talented musicians and highly regarded vocalists who took to the stage to present the very first musical entitled ‘Aladdin & out’. This was followed with annual productions of operetta or musical comedy and has continued to do so adding plays, reviews and pantomimes to the society’s repertoire.
Since 1918, Spenborough Amateurs have entertained the public without a break, other than the second world war years, and are now - along with their youth society - presenting three productions each year. A friendly and family-orientated society with two long-serving members, Robert (Society Chairman) and Judith - both pictured - having family connections, without a broken link, since it’s formation in 1918.
Tina 1927
Robert and Judith Celebrate 100 Years of the Society in 2018
Robert (society chairman) with Les Smith (NODA North East Councillor) At our 100 Years Celebration
Affiliated to the National Operatic & Dramatic Association (See NODA page), the society can boast having won numerous awards for best actors, productions, etc. We are one of the oldest societies in the North East having, celebrated our centenary year in 2018.
Memories - 2014
South Pacific - 1965
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The Desert Song - 1934
