The Society was founded in 1922 and until 1956, with a gap during the war years, produced one play a year at the Manor Pavilion, Sidmouth. The theatre in those days doubled as a dance hall and general-purpose venue with a flat floor and very few facilities.
From 1957 until 1964 two plays a year were presented at the Manor and after a few years we increased to three, which continues to this day.
In 1973 large changes were made to the theatre, when the stage was moved to the other end of the building, a bar was installed in the coffee room and dressing rooms were added behind the stage. Part of the auditorium was raked and a lighting box installed making it a proper little theatre.
Our annual pantomimes started in 1978 with great success both artistically and financially. It enabled us to re-build our headquarters/ workshop and give us financial security to present more difficult plays
In 1979, due to a gap in the theatre’s programme during the peak summer visitor’s season, four local societies were asked to fill a gap in the theatre’s programme. This was because the professional company, the Mercury Players, had decided to delay their return to Sidmouth. The local Council wished the theatre to be used for the entertainment of visitors and for five years SADS presented four plays a year as well as a pantomime.
The new building, opened in 1986 is situated in the Byes, Sidmouth on National Trust land. The building proudly boasts a rehearsal room with wardrobe facilities above and a large scene dock for the construction and painting of scenery. A further store has been added to the original building, but still there are problems with the storing of the many props, costumes and scenery flats that have been acquired.
A one act play festival for local and surrounding drama societies was introduced in 1998. Many groups, including juniors have enjoyed the superb facilities of the Manor Pavilion Theatre and the society is pleased to continue to host this event and provide financial support.
The society continues to flourish and has great hopes for the future. The present programme include theatre visits, play readings, social events as well as the production of plays and pantomimes. We paint our own scenery, provide much extra lighting for the theatre, and operate an extensive wardrobe.
Our membership includes those who wish to act as well as those who prefer to work on scenery construction or painting, lighting effects, making properties or providing staff for front of house at the theatre.
Costumes from our wardrobe are constantly being hired out to other companies, fancy dress parties and carnivals. Contact Mrs H. Hodge 01395 577816
Images of past productions
Sidmouth Amateur Dramatic Society
Contact Details
Peter Monck Telephone 01395 515616
Email [ petermonck@fsmail.net ]
