Six decades with Southwick Players, and still counting!

I want to mark the passing of a little bit of history. In our recent AGM we had a reshuffle, and one of Southwick Players’ longest-serving committee members, Sue Gullen, stepped down.

Sue has been a member since 1967 and part of our story since 1963. Over the years, she’s been an actress, director, committee member, and social secretary, dedicating countless hours to Southwick Players, both on and off the stage.

A family affair

Sue first became involved thanks to her parents, Peter and Mary Gullen, when the family moved to Southwick. Peter joined the Players to help build scenery. “The other option was the rifle club!” Sue laughs. And soon the whole family was involved. Mary worked on props and wardrobe, Peter became stage manager, set designer, actor and even a pantomime writer. And Sue started – way back when – as a ‘gofer,’ helping wherever she could.

Sue’s stage debut came in 1969 as the parlourmaid in Pygmalion, and her first major role followed in 1973 as Mary MacGregor in The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie. Since then, she has appeared in, directed, and supported countless productions.

From 2004 until this year, Sue also served on the committee, including many years as social secretary. She recently stepped down to “make room for new blood,” but remains very much involved in the life of the group.

In recognition of everything she has done for the Players over the past 60 years or so, Sue was presented with a Long Service Award certificate and a special gift at our recent AGM.

Sue’s warmth, humour and dedication have helped shape Southwick Players for almost six decades – and we’re so grateful she’s still very much part of our family.

She can run, but she can’t hide though – we have plenty of jobs lined up for her!