The Folkestone-Hythe Operatic and Dramatic Society
Founded in 1902, the Folkestone-Hythe Operatic and Dramatic Society — FHODS — is one of the oldest amateur dramatic societies in the United Kingdom. More than 120 years on, it is still going strong. Read the full story of FHODS →
Based at The Tower Theatre in Folkestone, FHODS stages a full programme of productions each year: musicals, plays, comedies, pantomimes, and youth performances, performed by local people with a genuine passion for theatre. Behind every show is a much larger team of people who make it all possible — and they are just as essential as anyone on the stage.
Who Gets Involved
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.
The Tower Theatre
FHODS is one of the very few amateur theatre societies in the UK to own its own venue. The Tower Theatre — a Grade II listed former garrison church with a remarkable history — is both a home for FHODS productions and a working arts venue open to the wider community. It is, in every sense, the society’s proudest achievement.
Get Involved
New members are always welcome. Whether you want to perform, work behind the scenes, or simply support what FHODS does, there is a place for you. For performing, visit our auditions page. To volunteer backstage or front of house, head to our volunteering page. Or if you’re ready to join, everything you need is on our membership page.