The Winter’s Tale

The Greek outdoor theatre was built in 1924 by unemployed men of the borough as part of the public works programme during the terrible depression that followed the First World War. Most such works involved infrastructure maintenance or building lidos. In fact, the original proposal was for a swimming pool on the site. Mary Norris, the incoming Headmistress, argued for a theatre instead. At the time, theatres like this were a feature of only the most prestigious Public Schools. We believe this is the only one built as part of the public works programme and the only one built at the time at a council-run school. Though reduced in scale, it is a replica of a classical Greek Theatre. The central plinth represented a sacrificial altar, a feature that connected Greek drama to its origins in religious ritual. The Portico represents a Temple, which theatres were often connected to. The theatre officially opened in 1925. The renowned stage and screen actress Sybil Thorndike (later of course Dame Sybil) and her director husband revived their recent West End production of the Greek tragedy Medea. Girls from the Fifth Form made up the chorus.

The group was founded in 1958 but can trace its roots back to the 1920s and the original Old Girls Drama Society. It’s aim is to make use of this unique local feature by presenting an annual and traditional Shakespeare. It has also helped maintain the theatre. Our website has more information about the history of the theatre and The Greek Theatre Players. If you are interested in participating in plays here or would like to be added to our mailing list, contact us via the website or by email or phone.