History of Little Theatre

Standing in the foyer of The Peninsula Theatre during the recent production of Doubt, I overheard someone say they were unaware that we had a local drama group.

This has prompted me, as one of its original founders, to emulate my historical and sometimes Thespian friend, Fred Landman and take a nostalgic look at the origins of our own Woy Woy Little Theatre.

The story begins at the end of 1961, early 1962, when a group of local people with musical talents decided to try and establish a musical society here on the Peninsula.

It soon became apparent that there was no venue in the district suitable for staging musical shows, even on a small scale, so it was agreed that a drama group was the better option.

Thus was formed what is now known as Woy Woy Little Theatre and also began a long association with Umina Progress Hall, which had a workable stage area with one or two restrictions.

Some 50 plays or more were presented at Umina before a move was made to the Woy Woy High School Auditorium and then, due to much hire and rent costs to the primary school.

There was always the dream of having a dedicated drama theatre in this area and a number of opportunities came and went due to lack of local interest.

Eventually through the efforts of a lot of dedicated people and a council with some foresight, we now have this beautiful theatre.

Those who have never been to one of these productions are missing out of some high quality theatre.

Bill Flynn, Blackwall