The history of the Williams Repertory club
The origins of the Williams Repertory Club are shrouded in mystery, but its story begins before the outbreak of World War II, when Reverend Needham rallied a group of locals to form a theatrical club. Sadly, the curtain fell on this early chapter when the Reverend moved away, and the club quietly dissolved.
Yet the spirit of performance proved resilient. As World War II unfolded, the club was revived, staging productions that not only entertained but also raised funds for patriotic causes. Once again, however, the demands of wartime service drew many members away, and the club was forced into hiatus.
Then, in 1953, a spark reignited. A passionate group of theatre lovers gathered at Oz Keally’s home, determined to breathe new life into the club. From that meeting, the modern-day Williams Repertory Club was born.
Their debut production, Operation Cold Cure, was staged at the King’s Hall, nestled beside the Williams Hotel. Admission was free, and the performance was met with enthusiastic applause from a delighted audience.
By the second show, word had spread. Tickets were sold—two shillings for adults, one for children—and crowds poured in from Narrogin, Darkan, and surrounding towns. The King’s Hall overflowed with eager theatre-goers, prompting a last-minute dash to borrow extra chairs from the Cosy Corner Tearooms next door.
From these modest beginnings, the Williams Repertory Club blossomed into a beloved cultural institution. Over the decades, it has brought to life a dazzling array of productions—from timeless classics like Paint Your Wagon, Oklahoma, and My Fair Lady, to blockbuster Broadway hits such as Chicago and We Will Rock You. The club’s journey is a testament to the enduring power of community, creativity, and the magic of live theatre.
