By Jo Fiddes
Knowing the excellent reputation of Fulneck Dramatic Society, I booked tickets for Hobson’s Choice as soon as I saw they were available, and it’s a good job as their latest production sold out quickly.
It was my first visit to Fulneck Theatre, an intimate and charming venue that has hosted the society since 1924.
Whilst modern and comfortable inside, the short walk through the Moravian settlement to reach the venue added a palpable sense of history to the evening – a perfect backdrop for a show that celebrates working-class life in Northern England.
As a huge fan of the film version of Hobson’s Choice (David Lean, 1953), I was looking forward to seeing how it worked as a stage play (I hadn’t actually realised till I looked at the programme notes that it started life as a play, written by Harold Brighouse in 1915).
The standout performances in this production came from Claire Andrews as the determined and forceful Maggie Hobson, and Peter Oxtoby as Henry Hobson, her domineering and drink loving father.
Claire perfectly portrayed the intelligence and independence of a woman who is ultimately able to control her own destiny at a time when societal expectations were so rigid. She was able to capture the essence of Maggie’s strength and ambition throughout the play.
Peter gave an equally convincing performance as a domineering father and businessman who is unprepared for the changes taking place in both his domestic arrangements and in wider society. This assured performance allowed the audience to sympathize with a character who, at times, seemed like a bully.
Jack Massey’s performance as the shy, self-doubting bootmaker William Mossop who gradually transforms into a self-assured businessman under Maggies guidance also deserves a mention.
The supporting cast, too, held their own, which meant that the audience was thoroughly engaged in the story arc of all the characters. In addition, the comedy timing was excellent, meaning lots of laughter throughout.
Watching the play in such a cosy theatre offered a real intimacy – the production felt grounded in the everyday realism of working-class Northern life.
The lack of elaborate sets and the simplicity of the staging added to the performance – and there was real attention to detail in the costumes which added to the sense of time and place.
It is fair to say that this amateur dramatics production of Hobson’s Choice exceeded my expectations in every way.
If you have the chance to see this production and a last minute ticket becomes available, I highly recommend it—it’s a beautiful celebration of strong women, taking control of your own destiny and of our proud Northern heritage.
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