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This year, David Wrightam has celebrated 60 years in theatre.
Born in Grimsby, David had his first experience of the stage at age 8, when he joined a Caxton Theatre production of A Christmas Carol in the role of Tiny Tim. He trained with the Caxton Players until he was old enough to join the society as a member of ‘The Little Theatre’. At age 18, David directed his first show, making him the society’s youngest Director. Over the years, he has played many leading roles in all kinds of productions, directed many plays, and experimented with playwriting. The Theatre became his second home, helping out with sets and props whenever he could.
In 1988, David left the Caxton Players and began a 26-year run in musical theatre with Silhouettes, Stage One, and the Grimsby and Cleethorpes Operatic Society, starring in productions such as Oklahoma, Little Shop of Horrors, Cabaret, and My Fair Lady.
Then, in 2001, David took a leap of faith and established his very own theatre school; Class Act. Initially, the company began with two classes per week for young people interested in drama, but it wasn’t long before classes grew and the very first Class Act production took to the stage in 2003. Today, people from across Grimsby, North East Lincolnshire and beyond watch Class Act’s productions in the 300-seat theatre in Cleethorpes’ Parkway Cinema.
David says: “I started Class Act because I believe that theatre should be open to all, and not just those whose parents can afford high fees.
“Theatre is a huge escape for people, and I wish those who have never been would give it a try. There are amateurs with very high standards as well as visiting professional shows. As well as actors, we have seen many go into lighting, sound and stage management. Young people can enhance their lives by using their energies in the many jobs created by the theatre.”
In recent years, Grimsby’s profile has seen a change with a wave of positivity thanks to local people's dedication and a growing faith in the area.
Grimbarians is more than a not-for-profit organisation. It is a creative movement, born to change the story line of the town and the way people identify the area.
Through documenting and showcasing the lives of local people, we aim to promote confidence in the area, increase pride and build a stronger, more positive reputation for Great Grimsby because #grimsbyreallyismore.
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