On Saturday 4th August HIADS (that’s Hayling Island Amateur Dramatic Society) will be holding an open day at its home in the Station Theatre, West Town. You can find out how the theatre was converted from the railway goods shed at the end of the Billy Line in 1996 and have a tour of the theatre and its backstage facilities.

As well as a comprehensive description of HIADS there is a chance to learn about HIYA (Hayling Island Young Actors) and their activities. On the stage (2pm till 4pm) will be some short workshops – an introduction to mime, a chance to read parts in a scene from a recent play, and some improvised comedy.

Wardrobe and props specialists will be on hand to show and tell about their roles and the opportunities that exist for willing volunteers. There will be face painting for children of all ages (10am till 2pm) and enthusiastic builders and artists can view sets and a fabulous workshop.

Modern sound and lighting equipment are part of the magic that the theatre creates and these will be demonstrated and explained. Refreshments are going to be available in the foyer where box office and front of house will describe their functions.

This a great opportunity to explore this wholly volunteer-run theatre and to get involved with the fun that accompanies live shows. For youngsters it is great chance to acquire discipline and creativity and to build skills that will enhance a curriculum vitae.

Soft drinks available all day and the bar will be open from 2pm.

For more information and details of timings please refer to the Station Theatre website www.stationtheatre.co.uk or call in or phone between 10 and noon Monday to Saturday 023 9246 6363.

A stage play by Ian Gower and Paul Carpenter.
Adapted from the original TV series by Richard Curtis and Paul Mayhew-Archer.
With kind permission of Tiger Aspect Productions.

Directed by Linda MacDonald

Featuring all the characters from the BBC1 series, this show brings together scenarios from various episodes in series 1 and 2 to form a new story giving a balance of laughter, poignancy and mayhem.

This wonderful play covers some major events such as the Vicar's arrival, her refusal of Owen's marriage proposal and Hugo and Alice's wedding ceremony. It also includes jokes to the verger.

Please note that (due to some coarse language / adult themes) this play is unsuitable for young children.

Interested in acting? See open auditions for more info.

The classic thriller by Arnold Ridley.

A very silly young man accidentally strands six passengers at a small, isolated, Cornish station. Accompanied by a psychotic stationmaster with his weird stories of a Ghost Train, they soon regret their decision to stay the night as malevolent forces are unleashed against them...

Be sure to get your boarding pass for the Ghost Train!

Directed by Jason Christopher

Interested in acting? See open auditions for more info.