The idea of an Eve of the Eve event was conceived before the Players lost their theatre in the Arch beneath Charing Cross Station.
The club had tried a New Year's Eve party in its old theatre, but a combination of demands for treble time wages, and the challenge of getting home, led to the very simple idea that perhaps a party on December 30th might work.
It did, so on December 30th 2004, having recovered from the loss of the theatre, Bill Halson revived the idea by hosting a party at the Royal Air Force club, to which he belongs, having served Her Majesty as a Flying Officer in the Royal Air Force.
Eve of the Eve parties have now been held every year since then, and, as is wont with the Players, have become traditional. The established pattern is of a full scale Music Hall, with full augmented orchestra (consisting, inevitably of 15 or more absentees and a single musician), interrupted by a rather lengthy Interval For Refreshments.
Even the food is traditional: the RAF club's superb and genuine Steak and Kidney pudding, followed by an intoxicating and calorific Sherry Trifle. Last year - nominally to be his last - Bill had a moment of panic when Steak and Kidney pudding disappeared from the RAF club's standard winter menu. Happily the Chef agreed to make an exception, and we are reliably informed that he will do so again this year.
Yes, in response, as they say, to popular demand there will be an Eve of the Eve party on December 30th 2019. Booking and administrative tasks will be in the hands of Michael Halson, while Jan Hunt will produce new artistes, as well as performing herself in two of her best comic roles. Peter John will make an appearance as a pantomime Dame. There will be our (now traditional) magician, and seasonally appropriate CanCan dancers.
Having held the price for several years, we have had to raise it this year: - but where else could you get a West End show plus Steak and Kidney Pudding, Sherry Trifle, petits fours and coffee for £75 (£70 if you are a member, or part of a group of 6 or more)?
Booking is now open - visit the Eve of the Eve page to reserve your places. Last year we had to turn people away, so book now.