Paperless Play Readings
The Burgess Hill Theatre Club is introducing some new initiatives to help grow and broaden our members' knowledge of and passion for plays.
Here at BHTC our play readings are very informal and relaxed. Please feel free to bring snacks and drinks. We’ll gather around some tables in the theatre. There will be some paper scripts available as well as digital copies,
Throughout the evening (normally between scenes) we will re-assign characters so anyone who wants to has an opportunity to read. There is no obligation to read and you are welcome to simply sit back and listen. The evening will close with a general discussion of the play where you are encouraged to share your thoughts on the script we have read.
If anyone has suggestions or requests for future play readings, please do let me know.
2026
Much Ado About Mean Girls by Ian Doescher (3m, 6f)
Date: 5th January 2026
Power struggles. Bitter rivalries. Rampant jealousy. Betrayals. Star-crossed lovers. When you think about it, it’s pretty surprising William Shakespeare DIDN’T write Mean Girls. But at last, readers will be treated to the epic drama and epic hilarity of the classic teen comedy rendered with the wit, flair, and iambic pentameter of the Bard. The action unfolds as our heroine Cady disguises herself to infiltrate the conniving Plastics, falls for totally-off-limits Aaron, struggles with her allegiance to newfound friends Damian and Janis, and stirs up age-old vendettas between the factions of the high school. Bestselling author Ian Doescher brings his signature Shakespearean wordsmithing to one of the most revered stories of our time. Fourteen years after its release (feel old yet?) Mean Girls has become a cultural phenomenon and cult classic among generations of teen girls and other fans, and is more than apt for an Elizabethan makeover.
Shakespeare in Love by Lee Hall adapted from the film by Marc Norman and Tom Stoppard (Large cast)
Date: 10th February 2026
Young Will Shakespeare has writer's block. The deadline for his new play is fast approaching, but he's in desperate need of inspiration. That is, until he finds his muse... the feisty, brilliant and beautiful Viola. This crafty young woman is Will’s greatest admirer and will stop at nothing (including breaking the law) to appear in his next play. Against a bustling background of mistaken identity, ruthless scheming and backstage theatrics, Will’s love for Viola quickly blossoms, inspiring him to write his greatest romantic masterpiece.
Please note: the plays are not vetted in advance. Some may contain strong language or scenes of an adult nature.
Free for members. Non-members are welcome and encouraged to give a small donation to the Club.
Venue
Burgess Hill Theatre
98 Church Walk
Burgess Hill
RH15 9AS
