Twitter Guide to Amateur Dramatic Groups Part 1 - The Matriarch

Right, it has been far too long since my last tweet. I looks like my Twitter novel is pretty much dead in the water so my latest idea is...As stated in my notes, I am a frustrated actor. At 43, I think the possibility of being 'discovered' has probably passed me by but that doesn't stop me doing amateur dramatics. I know, I hear you all recoiling in horror at the local theatre group murdering Shakespeare.

But, this got me thinking the other night at rehearsals whilst mumbling with a friend who had popped along. Are the types of people who join these groups always the same? To this end, my next twitter project is to list and describe the various types in our group. If anyone recognises the types in their own groups, I would welcome any comments or observations. So here goes.

The Matriarch. Could also be a Patriarch but in this case, the former. This is the woman who has been with the group from the beginning. She tended at the beginning to act but preferred to direct (sense of control). In later years though has complained that there is too much work left for her to sort out and wants to take a break. This usually means that she will attend every meeting and rehearsal and 'reluctantly' takes on the role of producer. What does that role entail? All the jobs that she complained were being left for her to do before! It also gives her a degree of power again without having to direct. Recognise this person? Then don't tell them :).

More to follow!