In 1980 the Stage Manager from Hillingdon Musical Society, Iain, met the Stage Manager of Uxbridge and District Musical Society, Chris, whilst working together backstage. During that particular show, no doubt over a drink or two, they decided that it would it a great idea to merge the two stage crews and all of the equipment into one.
In the early years HUSC 'crewed' mainly for the two original societies, but also worked with other local
groups, occasionally 'crewing' for the Slough and Brent societies. By now it was the late eighties and
Hayes and Harlington Operatic Society approached HUSC in need of a stage crew. Which we duly
supplied.
This helped to spawn the relationship between the three societies and today the majority of our members
still come from within them. Many members enjoy both performing and working backstage, thus being
able to take the opportunity to work within both roles.
Within the crew there is a wealth of experience and knowledge that has been gained over the years. We
have worked in a wide variety of venues such as: The Beck Theatre, The Compass Theatre, Watersmeet,
The Winston Churchill Hall, The Greenford Hall and Brent Hall. We have also worked in the Planet Theatre,
which was a full flying theatre (just like the West End!). Whether the production is to be staged in a small
church hall, a large theatre like 'The Beck' or the show is technically demanding, we are more than capable
of managing the show.
In the past HUSC have assisted with a number of professional touring companies including the Royal
Northern Ballet Company. We have also assisted with some of The Beck Theatre youth and summer
projects, as well as local charity shows; including a HASBRO sponsored production in aid of Hillingdon
Life Education.
A number of our crew have used HUSC as a stepping stone to go onto full time employment within
the theatre and television industries. To join our crew, no experience or qualifications are necessary,
Safety training and manual handling guidance are given as some heavy lifting is involved. You just
need plenty of enthusiasm and a good sense of humour to overcome the hard work! Don't think that
'crewing' is just a male environment or only for the youngsters. Almost half the crew are female and
there is no upper age limit, although we do have a minimum age of sixteen.
It is important to note that HUSC are not part of the Beck or its technical
team but are made up entirely of unpaid volunteers and yes - we do all have
full time jobs!