ABOUT US
ABOUT US
Founded in 1924 and based in Harrogate, North Yorkshire, HOPs Musical Theatre Company (formally known as Harrogate Operatic Players) are an amateur dramatics group, performing shows every year to audiences around the area. We have also just become, as of 2021, a CIO, so we are officially a Charitable Incorporated Organisation. We have been fortunate enough to perform exciting shows such as Sister Act, Annie, Betty Blue Eyes and Top Hat in recent years. Their latest was My Fair Lady which was put on stage June 2019. May 2020 we were affected greatly by the COVID-19 pandemic, which resulted in cancelling our beloved, 2020 show Kipps! The New Half a Sixpence. We celebrated 2022 with not only 1 but 2 sold out runs of Kinky Boots and we succeeded the mammoth show of 'Chitty Chitty Bang Bang' in 2023.
As we approach our centenary year, HOPs are proud to be delving further into the wonder that is musical theatre, by performing musicals both old and new, dramatic and comedic. We pride ourselves on creating and providing entertainment for our audiences, ensuring they leave the theatre having enjoyed our shows. Working with a diversity of people, young and old, men and women, all from different backgrounds and jobs. They get together to have fun, socialise, learn from each other and create life long friends, as well
as experiencing the wonderful world of Musical Theatre.
It takes many, many people to put on a show, which is why it's important that we love what we do- whether it be performing, directing, working backstage, working on the committee, managing props... the list is endless.
We couldn't survive without our wonderful audiences that support us. Without our audience, creating and performing our shows would be impossible, and for that we are very grateful.
Richard Lill - Chairman
Having being part of the society for numerous years now, Richard has worked very hard in his first year of being Chairman. Always has a smile on his face, his approach is always warm, welcoming and he is always helping out, whether he is at rehearsals or during the society's social events. He has brought the society together to encourage having fun, make new friends, enjoy our hobby in the theatre world. It is a huge privilege to have him in the society.
His commitment is tremendous, not only does he make the over all decisions and chair our meetings, he takes great pride in being the Wardrobe and Wig Master of the HOPs society. With Richard you can be sure you never go on stage not looking the absolute part.
Christine Littlewood - President
Christine has been part of Harrogate Operatics for a smashing 45 years! In that time, she has also been the Chairman, now still a playing member and friend and a Life Member of HOPs!
Her commitment, loyalty and welcoming manner is a credit to the society, not only that, her own son, Simon Littlewood is a playing member too! Keeping it in the family!
She works incredibly hard representing the society, not only on stage, but she is also part of the Social and Fundraising Committee. This team make sure we have plenty of social events to attend and help to raise funds to keep the shows running and the society itself running.
The Committee Team
Secretary - Georgie Gladwyn
Assistant Secretary - Jane Rutherford
Treasurer - David Hartley
Marketing Manager - Lucy Thackwray
Backstage Manager - Stephen Graham
Friends & Members/ Backstage Manager - Cathy Hellas
