The Glasgow Amateur Dramatic Club was founded around 1883 to promote the study and practice of Dramatic Art. The club was in essence a charitable institution with tickets available only from members. With audiences consisting of members and their friends, the events staged were no more than private theatricals with local charities the financial beneficiaries of the one guinea entrance fee. Members were elected by the committee. The administration of the club was conducted by this committee which consisted of Professor Bayley Balfour, J.B. Balloch, Hugh Moncrieff, T F Donald with G W Baynham as dramatic advisor. The Honorary President was Sir James Watson and the President was Professor Young. This body was supported by various patrons including The Very Rev Principal Caird and James Campbell Esq of Tulliechewan.
From the guide to the Records of the Glasgow Amateur Dramatic Club, amateur dramatic club, Glasgow, Scotland, 1883, (Glasgow University Archive Services)
