About Us
The Leckhampton Players were formed on 17th January 1947 under the chairmanship of the then rector, Rev. E.W.B. Cordingly with a membership fee of 2/6d (12½p) for juniors and 5/- (25p) for others. The society was formed “for all those in Leckhampton interested in drama & Music and this objective remains to this day although the Players have welcomed members from outside the Leckhampton Parish boundaries.
An extract from the Players’ archives gives details of the first production as follows :-
The first production was staged on the 1st & 2nd May 1947 and was basically in the form of a review with songs based on Irish and London scenes, together with two short one act plays. The Players’ were given the use of the Parish Hall free of charge for this initial production. Seating was provided for 120 (60 chairs were hired) and ticket prices were as follows :-
20 at 3/- (15p) reserved and numbered, 60 at 2/6d (12½p), 40 at 1/6 (7½p), 20 posters were printed and the production realised a ‘very satisfactory profit’ of £9.8.6½.
In the early 50s the players faced a grim outlook with a low bank balance (£8.00 in 1952 and a venue which lacked adequate facilities for their ever ambitious productions. In 1955 things took a turn for the better when the Hall Trustees agreed to have the necessary improvements made at a cost of £50.6.0.
Since that time it is fair to say that the Players have never looked back and is now one of the most successful Amateur Drama societies in Cheltenham. With the valuable assistance of the Hall Trustees considerable improvements in lighting, sound, and stage have been achieved, largely self funded by the Players. This has enabled the society to provide entertainment which has been compared favourably with the professional stage by our patrons.
The society performs three regular productions each year, a Pantomime, a Musical Show (Old Time Music Hall / Songs from the Shows) and a Play. In addition, special concerts and cabarets are also performed as required. The Pantomimes are particularly popular and the society has won the Gloucestershire Drama Association award for ‘Best Pantomime’ in 2000, 2001 and 2006.
As well as performing shows the society has an active social side with theatre trips, walks, assisting in Hall fundraising events etc.
Currently the Leckhampton Players has a membership of 60 and welcomes anyone with an interest in theatre both on and off stage. Why not join this friendly society? Call the secretary, Lin Jemetta on 01242 863821 or the chairman, Phil Brooker on 01242 862565.
If you do not wish to become a full member, the Players has a Patrons scheme, which has over 100 members. Patrons receive the regular Players newsletter, priority booking forms and a reduction on ticket prices. Call either of the above for details.
As you can see the Leckhampton Players is a thriving, successful society providing a valuable service to Leckhampton and beyond.
You can view a list of previous production on the Past Productions page
