Norman Kessell, newspaper theatre and music critic was founder and "Chief Glug" of an informal group of theatre lovers called the "The Glugs", whose name was suggested by the C.J. Dennis book The Glugs of Gosh, and who have helped to foster an interest in theatre by playing host to most local and overseas performers in weekly meetings since the inception in 1968-69.

“Glugs” now meet monthly – once upon a time on the first Tuesday, but of late, to meet the requirements of the latest venue, the first Monday of the month, at the Masonic Club.

The Glugs are a quite informal group with no constitution, no rules and for many years, no fees.  However, as there are over 80 members, scattered far and wide throughout Australia, there is a small fee for postage and email contact.   

Membership was and still is by invitation only.  Those who are passionate about theatre are always considered favourably.  All they need is just a common bond for and love of theatre, good food, wine and good conversation.

The first Glugs Awards were presented at the January 1973 "Glugs" luncheon, being an annual award to the person – actor, writer, director or producer - whom they judge to have made the most significant contribution to the Australian theatre. The first major award went to David Williamson as the outstanding Australian playwright for 1972. Runner-up was Mrs Amy McGrath for efforts in establishing the first national theatre for Australian playwrights, The Australian Theatre, then recently opened at Newtown.

Nowadays the Glugs year begins in February -  with the presentation lunch for the Glugs Theatrical Awards.  

This year there were 15 awards presented ranging from NORMAN KESSELL Memorial awards for Best Performances by Actors (male and female), JEFFRY JOYNTON-SMITH Memorial Awards for Best Supporting Actors, the HAYES GORDON MEMORIAL AWARD for Important Contribution to Theatre, the COLLEEN CLIFFORD Memorial Award for Performance in a Musical, the TAFFY DAVIES Memorial Award for the Best New Australian play to awards for Spreading the Word about Theatre, Best Cabaret Performer, Best Theatrical Production,  and the SEABORN, BROUGHTON AND WALFORD Special Award for Life Achievement.