THEY’VE long been applauded as a class act off stage as well as on.

For as well as having terrific actors and directors, Huddersfield Thespians have a first rate backstage team.

Unlike many of the big musical societies who often hire in scenery, the Thespians design and build their own sets.

They also have a wardrobe and prop collection put together over many years which would be the envy of any society.

Later this month, the stage staff will be holding open house to give people an idea what they do and hopefully to recruit a few more pairs of hands.

That open night will be at the Thespians’ home base at Oakes Mill West in New Hey Road on Tuesday, October 30 at 7.30pm.

Michael Schofield has been at the heart of much of the set design, building and dressing over many years and it is his meticulous eye that has helped build the Thespians a formidable reputation for its excellent stagecraft.

“I’ve been involved for about 43 years,” said Michael.

“We make and build all of our own sets. This includes different techniques such as simple joinery, painting and stencilling.

“We have a large store of furniture and props but sometimes need to source one-off pieces - most recently a Bedford van!

“Most of the jobs are pretty straightforward, so you don’t need any special skills and there is always someone on hand to help.”

And Michael has had the satisfaction over many years of knowing that his expert eye, trained by many years in the antiques business has won the Thespians much applause for its creativity and attention to detail as well as for its technical skills.

This is a back stage team that works hard but has had plenty of good times along the way too. Why not join them?