A collection of unique Hardy scripts, play scripts and stage set models collected by Thomas Tilley, stage manager of the original Hardy Players is up for sale. The scripts date from 1908 -1924 some with hand written production notes. The collection also includes transcripts of twelve Hardy novels and short stories.

Dorset County Museum Director, Dr Jon Murden is raising £58,000 to keep this important collection in the UK and bring it home to Dorset. (A major American University has expressed strong interest).  Substantial sums have been pledged from generous local and regional sources.To help the campaign, the New Hardy Players are presenting a special evening to help raise part of the £58,000 needed.

“Hardy's Night - Chapter and Verse" takes place on Friday 12th March at the Dorset County Museum in Dorchester, 7.30pm. Tickets cost £12.50 including Dorset Apple Cake and apple cider punch. Catering provided by the Octagon Café. Tickets from the museum reception desk.

Norrie Woodhall, 104, the last surviving original Hardy Player, will perform Hardy’s work once again during the evening.

To raise even more money there will be an auction of several valuable Hardy related items  including a book signed by Thomas Hardy himself. Also under the hammer is a chance to have “Tea with Norrie”, an opportunity not to be missed.

Support the Hardy Players Fund a worthy, local, Dorchester cause

Contact the Dorset County Museum for details and tickets Tel: 01305 262735