MDC Chairman’s Report AGM 2025
Marlborough started 2025 with 41 members. A much healthier position than during and soon after COVID ended.
Early in the year the committee started meeting regularly at our barn storage facility to begin the task of reducing unwanted furniture and props. It has proved to be a year-long commitment – only brought to a close in October before the winter weather sets in. However, going into 2026 much remains to be done. Still on the barn, we were pleased to construct and unveil a new storage facility in honour of our sadly departed long standing member and friend, Pat Staley. Many of her extended family were able to attend the event.
In anticipation of our spring production of The Ladykillers myself and Juliette Bird went for a radio interview on Phoenix FM. The production itself in April was a huge challenge, especially on the set. But it was a critical and financial success, with the matinee producing one of the club’s highest audiences for many a year. A glowing NODA report was the icing on the cake.
In June we began rehearsals for our VE Day themed war concert as our entry into the Brentwood Arts Festival. We were delighted that long standing member and one of our Vice Presidents, Margaret Corry, wrote a special play for the event which received its world premier as a result. The evening itself in July at the Memorial Hall was a moving and uplifting evening with excellent readers and music.
In August members and friends met at the Hutton Cricket Club for a wonderful cream tea. We also ran a bring and buy to raise funds. Only a small loss was reported.
In September we held our annual quiz night. This time in partnership with The Hutton Players. A sizeable profit was made and both groups benefitted. A successful raffle was held too.
In October we performed our second production of the year, Variation on a Theme, directed by June Fitzgerald. An excellent cast backed by great backstage support produced a much praiseworthy production enjoyed by all. Once again, NODA were very complimentary.
During the autumn auditions were held to cast our April 2026 production of Kind Hearts and Coronets to be directed by our first-time director, Lindsey Crutchett. A read through will be held immediately following the AGM.
Finally, I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to all the committee for their tireless hard work during 2025. To Sue for her continuing wisdom and gathering of props. To Harry for his level headed advice and admin. To Karol for her minute taking and getting of difficult props. To Harry and Karol for their front of house duties, including refreshments. To Steve for his work and care with the barn and knowing where everything is and Mark for being our iron treasurer carefully controlling our finances. And finally, a special mention to Juliette for all the amazing work she does to keep the club ticking over. Every drama group needs a Juliette and we are so lucky to have her.
Finally, I wish to go on notice that this coming year, 2026, will be my last as Chairman, so let the countdown begin to finding my successor.
William Wells