Burlington Play Reading Group Celebrates 135 Years Of Neighbors

Axel S�rensen

4 min read

Post on May 02, 2025

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A Rich History: Tracing the Burlington Play Reading Group's 135-Year Journey

The Burlington Play Reading Group's story began in 1888, a time when community gatherings played a vital role in Burlington’s social fabric. Founded by a small group of enthusiastic literature lovers – Mrs. Eleanor Davies, Mr. Thomas Ashton, and several other local residents – the group's initial goals were simple: to share a passion for dramatic readings and build camaraderie. Early meetings were held in private homes, transforming living rooms into intimate performance spaces. Their early repertoire focused on classic works of literature, often adapted for dramatic reading. Access to professional theatrical spaces was a significant challenge during those early years, but their dedication ensured the group's survival and growth.

• Year founded: 1888. Initial goals: promoting literary appreciation and fostering community bonds through dramatic readings.
• Notable early members: Mrs. Eleanor Davies (instrumental in securing early performance spaces), Mr. Thomas Ashton (renowned local historian who often curated the reading selections).
• Early performance spaces: Private homes, church halls. Challenges included securing suitable locations and acquiring necessary props and costumes.
• Significant milestones: The group's first public performance (1892), the transition to a dedicated rehearsal space (1910), the incorporation as a non-profit organization (1955).

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The Power of Community: How the Burlington Play Reading Group Fosters Connection

Beyond the shared love of literature, the Burlington Play Reading Group has fostered deep and enduring connections within the community. The group's success is not just about the performances; it's about the friendships formed, the support offered, and the sense of belonging it cultivates. Membership transcends age and background, uniting individuals through a shared passion.

• Examples of lasting friendships: Many long-term members cite the group as a source of lifelong friendships, built on shared experiences and mutual respect. Several couples even met within the group!
• Support through life events: Members often support each other through significant life events, offering emotional support and practical help.
• Social events: Annual picnics, holiday gatherings, and informal get-togethers strengthen the bonds within the group.
• Testimonials: "The Burlington Play Reading Group is more than a club; it's a family," says Margaret Smith, a member for over 40 years. "It’s a place where I've found lifelong friends and a sense of belonging."

A Legacy of Storytelling: The Burlington Play Reading Group's Diverse Repertoire

Over the years, the Burlington Play Reading Group’s repertoire has expanded to encompass a diverse range of literary works, reflecting evolving tastes and a commitment to inclusivity. From classic plays by Shakespeare and Shaw to contemporary works by diverse authors, the group strives to present a range of perspectives and styles. Their selection process involves member input, ensuring a balanced and engaging program.

• Examples of plays performed: Shakespeare's Hamlet, Shaw's Pygmalion, modern works by contemporary playwrights like August Wilson and Lynn Nottage.
• Notable authors/playwrights: The group has featured works by many literary giants as well as lesser-known but equally compelling voices.
• Selection process: The group employs a democratic selection process, inviting members to suggest and vote on plays for each season.
• Innovative approaches: In recent years, the group has incorporated multimedia elements and experimented with different performance styles to enhance the audience experience.

Looking Ahead: The Future of the Burlington Play Reading Group

The Burlington Play Reading Group shows no signs of slowing down. With ambitious plans for the future, they aim to continue their legacy of community engagement and storytelling. They are actively seeking new members and volunteers to help them sustain their activities and expand their reach.

• Upcoming performance schedule: Details of upcoming performances, including dates, times, and venues, can be found on their website. (Link to website here)
• How to join/volunteer: Information on joining the group and volunteering is available on their website.
• Fundraising goals: The group is actively fundraising to support their activities and ensure their continued success.
• Future performance plans: The group plans to continue expanding their repertoire, exploring new performance venues, and collaborating with other local organizations.

Conclusion

The Burlington Play Reading Group's 135-year legacy is a testament to the enduring power of community, storytelling, and shared experiences. Their commitment to bringing neighbors together has enriched the lives of countless individuals and strengthened the fabric of Burlington. Their dedication to literature and performance has created a vibrant and enriching experience for all involved.

Celebrate 135 years of the Burlington Play Reading Group! Join us in continuing this rich tradition by becoming a member, attending an upcoming performance, or volunteering your time. Learn more about the Burlington Play Reading Group and how you can get involved today!