History
of The Oxted Players
(Formerly The Student Players)
The Oxted Players were formed in 1946 under the name of the Student
Players, the name being derived from the fact that the members were
“students of drama”. To keep up with the times, the Society changed
its name from the Student Players to The Oxted Players on 1 January
2000.
Their first
major production, Poison Pen was in the Autumn of 1948 and the
tradition of an Autumn production has been continuous with only two
years being missed. They also began presenting an annual pantomime in
1950. In 1954 they embarked upon presentation of Spring productions
with Many Happy Returns. With three productions a year, four
every other year and also Festival entries they are therefore a very
busy Society. They have probably performed every classic pantomime written,
plus some unconventional ones. Their play repertoire has included the
classics, farce and modern drama – including Shakespeare, Coward, Ayckbourn
and Stoppard. (Please see separate list of productions
for details)
The Society
is a member of The
National Operatic and Dramatic Association. They have successfully
competed against other theatrical societies in the Southern
Counties Drama Festival for short plays and have received many awards
for acting, direction and presentation. In 2010 the Young Players won
Best Youth Play for the fourth time in a row and also were Festival
Runners Up for the third time running.
Their junior
membership is large, primarily because of the interest in pantomime
and the week long summer workshop which is run in August, overseen by
David Rowan. They also have a full length Young
Oxted Players’ production every other year. There are also some
opportunities for youngsters to help on the technical side of productions.
They are
very fortunate to have the Barn Theatre as their home where they can
both rehearse and perform. The equipment available to them is extensive
and their productions are enhanced by the charm and character of the
theatre, which opened in 1924 and has recently been much improved.
As with most
amateur dramatic societies, they are supported by a stalwart band of
helpers who steadfastly turn out to set build, paint, crew and generally
assist on the production side but further help is always very welcome.
They are keen to encourage new members to become involved both on and
off stage and details of how to join can be obtained from the Membership
Secretary, Fran Chalmers, on 01883 381362.
Please see Contact
page for details of Membership
and general enquiries.