Tower Theatre, Folkstone

FHODS has always been open to everyone, and the society is far bigger than the cast list suggests. Members range from seasoned performers who have been treading the boards for decades to people stepping into a rehearsal room for the very first time — and no experience is required to get involved, only enthusiasm.

On stage, that means actors, singers, and dancers of all abilities. Off stage, it means directors, musical directors, choreographers, stage managers, and lighting and sound operators. It means the people who build and paint the sets, sew and source the costumes, and apply the make-up. It means the volunteers who greet audiences at the door, sell programmes, work the bar, and make sure every show night runs smoothly. It even means the people who quietly keep the building itself in good shape — maintaining the fabric of a listed Victorian church is no small undertaking, and there is always something to do, whether that is decorating, repairs, or keeping the garden tidy.

Some members do one thing and do it brilliantly. Others turn their hand to whatever needs doing. Both are equally valued.

The FHODS Youth Section is a dedicated programme for young people aged 12–18, giving them their own space within FHODS to perform, create, and develop as theatre-makers. Members work on full productions staged on the Tower Theatre’s main stage — the same stage used by the adult company — with the same ambition and the same high standards expected of any FHODS show. The Youth Section has built a strong reputation for taking on challenging material and seeing it through, and it has launched more than a few young people on to drama school and professional careers. If you know a young person who loves theatre, it is well worth pointing them this way.