Our History

Originally formed in 1949, our group began with Mr Albert Harding as President. One of our first plays was Blythe Spirit by Jack Turnbull, father of Martin Turnbull of Harts. It was during this production that our Life Member, Parma Jacobs, met her late husband, John Jacobs. Unfortunately, the group ceased performing in 1966.

 

A New Beginning

In December 1980, founding member John Byatt revived the group with a vision to bring farces, comedies and thrillers to the stage. With 15 members already signed up, he placed an appeal in a local newspaper, inviting 'anybody who is interested in acting, stage work or in just lending support' to attend a public meeting at the Corn Exchange, now home to Saffron Walden Library.

 

To raise funds for the group’s first production, members organised a jumble sale. Their efforts helped bring A Mixed Bag Revue to the stage in May 1981. Directed by John Byatt, the production was performed at the Corn Exchange and marked the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the group.

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Festivals and Achievements

Over the years, we have performed at numerous festivals across the Sawston and Cambridge areas, earning recognition and winning several awards. One notable achievement came in 1983, when we won second prize out of 20 groups for our performance of After Midnight, Before Dawn.

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Pantomime Tradition

Following two pantomimes staged at the Saffron Walden Town Hall by The Exchange Players to help revive the tradition in the town, we took up the mantle ourselves. Our first pantomime, Mother Bumphrey’s Amazing Adventure, written by John Brooker, was staged in 1986.

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To involve the local community, children in the town were invited to design a poster featuring a robot. The winning design was brought to life and incorporated into the pantomime.

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This reflected the group’s renewed aim: to bring live theatre to the town and give young children their first experience of live performance.

 

A Group for Everyone

At the heart of our group is a shared love of theatre and a strong sense of community. We are a theatrical family spanning all ages, with members contributing their skills and enthusiasm in many different ways. From directing, producing and performing to designing and building sets, creating props, providing choreography and helping backstage or front of house, there is a role for everyone.

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Our committee members come from all walks of life and generously give many hours of their own time throughout the year to keep the group thriving.

 

Join Us!

We are always delighted to welcome new members, whether you would like to perform on stage, get involved behind the scenes or simply be part of our friendly theatrical community.

 

If you would like to find out more, please get in touch using our Contact Form. We would love to hear from you!

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