| Biography: |
Hazel joined Rickmansworth Players in 1960, having arrived in Rickmansworth as a 'young bride' with husband Alan. They were both into 'amdrams', and felt that Rickmansworth Players would be the place to get to know people and make friends. And so it proved to be. Sadly, Alan died in the late 90s and up until then, both were still enthusiastic 'Rickety Players'. Hazel still remains one, even if she doesn't actually appear on stage. "All those words to learn....!" Hazel has forged many long-term friendships via the Players and is eternally grateful to have done so.
As well as treading the proverbial boards in both plays and musicals and directing Festival Plays, she has served as rehearsal pianist, along with David Langley, and still answers the call when it comes. David and Hazel also played on two pianos for performances and occasionally had the services of a timpanist, on occasion, to thicken up the 'orchestra'. Hazel also remembers being in the orchestra pit at Watersmeet with a full orchestra, overcome with giggles as she watched the Musical Director raising his eyes heavenward, practically crossing himself and sighing, as a 'principal' lady started her warbling - mostly off key!
Hazel directed the famous 'Dock Brief' by John Mortimer, with which Rickmansworth Players toured the Drama Festivals all over England - Scotland even - as well as Northern Ireland. 'Dock Brief' was a winner and you'll find our silver cups languishing somewhere together with the archives and photographs of our former triumphs closeted in some filing cabinet in Tudor Hall (a.k.a. The Scenery Store) behind Tudor Parade
One year (other 'Rickety Players' who were involved will supply the exact date) she appeared on ITV in an extract from a musical called 'Tenderloin' about the ladies of a red light district and their customers in a US city. She remembers her TV debut well, as it was very exciting. As the then Publicity Manager, Hazel also had the 'pleasure' of getting Rickmansworth Players as much media coverage as posssible.
Apart form her stage contributions, Hazel has also served Rickmansworth Players as Publicity Manager, Hon. Secretary, committee Member and Chairmanbetween the 1960s and 1990s, and currently offers herself as a Grumpy Old Woman-cum-Mentor sitting in the audience, muttering and tearing productions to shreds.
|
