Bradgate Drama Society : Previous Productions
1948 - 1959
The Drama society was first established in 1947, when a fund-raising dance and a nativity play were put on.
1948 Devil's day by Jack Ayling featured Jack Ayling, Thomas Tomlinson, Mabel Bullimore, Wilfred and Elsie Squirrel, Pearl Thatcher, Donald and Basil Gimson, Rose Ayling and Bill Riley.
Fresh Fields by Ivor Novello featured Rosemary Naylor, Thomas Tomlinson, Constance Stopper, Agnes Barnett, Norman Robinson, Marion Richardson, Rose Ayling, Leslie and Edna Carrington.
The society also put on a repeat of the Nativity Play performed in 1947.
1949: Quiet Weeekend by Esther McCracken featured Edward Haslegrave, Edna Carrington, Hazel Whitmore, Olive Beattie, Wilfred Squirrel, Mabel Bullimore, Jack and Rose Ayling, Pearl Thatcher, Basil Gimson, Thomas and Margaret Tomlinson, and Marjorie Gray. As well as the normal performamces in the Village Hall, the play was also performed to the Guild of the Crippled.
Hay Fever by Noel Coward featured Elizabeth Payne, Norman Robinson, Marion Richardson, Olive Beatty, Wilfred Squirrel, Rose Ayling, Basil and Donald Gimson and Mabel Bullimore.
Once again a nativity play was performed.
1950: Thirteenth Chair by Bayard Veiller featured Pearl Thatcher, Theo Hargreaves, Elsie Squirrel, Leslie Carrington, Donald Gimson, Constance Stopper, Elizabeth Payne, Norman Robinson, Reg Cramp, Agnes Barnett, John and Betty Makin, Jack Ayling, Ann Dawbarn, Marjorie Gray and Dick Price.
Berkeley Square by John L. Balderston in collaboration with J C Squire featured Thomas Tomlinson, Mabel Bullimore, Donald Gimson, Olive Beattie, Leslie and Edna Carrington, Theo Hargreaves, Pearl Thatcher, Marion Richardson, Jack and Rose Ayling, Norman Robinson, Peggy Start and Constance Stopper.
A Cuckoo in the Nest by Ben Travers featured Ann Dawbarn, Leslie and Edna Carrington, Wilfred Squirrel, Jack and Rose Ayling, Pearl Thatcher, Norman Robinson, Olive Beattie, Donald Gimson, Agnes Barnett, Dick Price and Theo Hargreaves. It was directed by David Beattie.
1951:Tilly of Bloomsbury by Ian Hay featured David Beattie, Leslie Carrington, Elizabeth Payne, Elsie Squirrel, Reg Cramp, Marjorie Gray, Theo Hargeaves, Mabel Bullimore, Norman Robinson, Constance Stopper, Dick Price, Marion Richardson, Thomas F Tomlinson and Edward Gregory. It was directed by Jack Ayling
The Girl who couldn't quite by Leo Marks featured Agnes Barnett, Neville Ripley, Dick Price, Jim Innes, Ann Dawbarn, Pearl Thatcher and Norman Robinson. It was directed by Thomas F. Tomlinson
A play for Ronnie by Warren Chetham Strode featured Edna Carrington, Reg Cramp, Hazel Whitmore, Thomas F. Tomlinson, Mary Hargreaves, Neville Ripley, Peggy Start, Chris Thormeloe and Gilian Gray. It was directed by Rose Ayling.
A nativity play was performed in Newtown Linford church.
In 1951 and 1952 the Society put on a Pageant in Bradgate Park.
1952:When we are married by J.B. Priestley featured Gilian Gray, Theo Hargreaves, Agnes Barnett, Doreen Juba, Dick Price, Norman Robinson, Wilf Squirrel, Marjorie Gray, Peter Rigg, Jack and Rose Ayling, Marion Richardson, Constance Stopper and Chris Thorneloe. It was directed by L Carrington and B.L Gimson.
The Happiest Days of your life by John Dighton, produced by Thomas Tomlinson featured Neville Ripley, Reg Cramp, Ann Dawbarn, Reg Jackson, Peggy Start, David Thorpe, Marjorie and Gillian Gray, Norman Robinson, Leslie and Edna Carrington, Edward Gregory and Elizabeth Payne.
1953: The passing of the third floor back by Jerome K. Jerome. It was adapted and produced by Jack Ayling, and featured Pearl Thatcher, Thomas Tomlinson, Wilf Squirrel, Noramn Robinson, Agnes Barrettt, Katherine Lang, Constance Stopper, Marjorie Gray, Theo Hargeaves, Jack Ayling, Doreen Suba and Bill Hay.
Lord Richard in the pantry by Sydney Bow and Douglas Hoare featured Gill Thorniloe, David Thorpe, Donald Gimson, Pearl Thatcher, Theo and Mary Hargreaves, Reg Jackson, Mabel Gregory, Diane Gray, Hazel Whitmore, Ann Dawbarn and Dick Price. It was directed by Jack Ayling
Emmanuel by James Forsyth featured Dick Price, Jack Ayling, Pearl Thatcher, Jack Walton, Norman Robinson, Marion Richardson, Donald Gimson, Jack Freestone, Christopher Thorneloe, Edward Gregory, Gillian amd Marjorie Gray, Joan Freestone, Thomas F Tomlinson and David Thorpe. It was directed by Jack Ayling
A float was produced to celebrate Queen Elizabeth's coronation.
1954: The Ex Mrs Y by Frank Eyton and Austin Melford featured Jack and Rose Ayling, Norman Robinson, Agnes Barnett, Mabel Gregory, Doreen Juba, Gillian Thorneloe, Theo Hargreaves, Jack Freestone and jack Walton. It was directed by Jack Ayling and Norman Robinson.
Bonaventure by Charlotte Hastings featured Peggy Start, Joan Freestone, Marjorie Gray, David Thorpe, Constance Stopper, Wilfred Squirrel, Katherine Lang, Leslie Carrington, Rose Ayling, Edna Carrignton and Agnes Barnett. It was directed by Thomas F Tomlinson
Orange Blossom featured Agnes Barnett, Norman Robinson, Rose Ayling, Marjorie Gray, Mabel Gregory, Marylyn Nutt and Jack Freestone, Dark Road featured Constance Stopper, Beryl Mullen, Norman Robinson and Peter Rigg and Still Waters, featured Christopher Thorneloe, Peggy Start, Rose Ayling, Bill McMullan and Gillan Gray (Three one-act plays). They were directed by Jack Ayling.
1955: Worm's Eye View by R. L. Delderfield. It was directed by Jack Ayling, and featured Jack Freeestone, Edward Gregory, Les Mullen, Jack and Rose Ayling, Marylyn Nutt, Thomas F Tomlinson, David Thorpe, Norman Robinson, Beryl Mullen and George Bowler.
Leap in the Dark by Wilfred Massey featured Marion Richardson, Jack Frestone, June Groocock, Pearl Thatcher, John Smith, Rose Ayling, Malcolm Harvey, Marylyn Nutt, Peggy Start and Joan Freestone. It was directed by Kathering Lang
1956: Jonny Belinda by Elmer Harris fetured Joan Freestone, June Groocock, Donald Gimson, George Bowler, Stan Morgan, Mabel Gregory, Jack Ayling, Pearl Thacher, Norman Robinson, Katherine Lang, Marilyn Nutt, Edward Gregory and Malcolm Harvey. It was directed by Thomas F Tomlnson and Jack Ayling
Familiar Stranger featuring Katherine Lang, Derek Mason, John Smith, Stan Morgan, Peggy Start, Joan Freestone and Marylyn Nutt, Wayside War featuring Thomas F Tomlinson, Marion Richardson, George Bowlere, Peter Boulter and Rose Ayling and Birds of Passage featuring Beryl Mullen, Chris Thorneloe, Les Mullen, Joan Freestone, John Smith, Stan Morgam and Derek Mason (Three one-act plays). They were directed by Constance Stopper (Wayside War) and Jack Ayling
Book of the Month by Basil Thomas featured George Bowler, Rose Ayling. Joan Freestonem, Marilyn Nutt, Pearl Harvey, Jack Freestone, Christopher Thorneloe and Malcolm Harvey. It was directed by Jack Ayling .
1957: Alice in Wonderland Dramatised by Edward Pochin from the novel by Lewis Carroll featured Beryl Mullen, Rose Ayling, Malcolm and Pearl Harvey, June Groocock, Sheila Stanlake, Marilyn Nutt, Gisela Knott, Katherine Lang, Dick Price, Roger Hockney, John Smith, Jeremy and Martin Gates, Agnes Barnett, Marion Richardson, Joan Freestone, Edward and Mabel Gregory, Donald Gimson, Dennis Juba, Peggy Start, Stan Morgan, Leslie Mullen, John Smith and Norman Robinson. It was directed by Jack Ayling
My three Angels by Sam and Bella Spewack from the French Play "Cuisine des Anges" by Albert Husson featured Marion Richardson, Dennis Juba, Kathering Lang, Pat Glovcer, Derek Mason, Leslie Mullen, Norman Robinsn, John Smith, Christopehr Thorneloe and Theo Hargreaves. It was directed by Jack Ayling
Ten little Niggers by Agatha Christie.The play was directed by John Smith, and featured Norman Robinson, Jack Ayling, Pat Glover, Pearl Harvey, Donald Gimson, Derek Mason, Stan Morgan, Dennis Juba, Joan and Jack Freestone and Malcolm Harvey.
1958: Rookery Nook by Ben Travers. The play was directed by Pearl Harvey, and featured June Groocock, Agnes Barnet, Jack Ayling, Malcolm Harvey, Derek Mason, Pat Glover, Jack Freestone, Dennis Juba, Rita Bowman and Sheila Stanlake
The Man in Grey, dramatised by Barbara Toy and Moie Charles from the novel by Lady Elkeanor Smith. It was produced by Rose Ayling, and featured Pearl Harvey, Peggy Start, Joan Freestone, June Groocock, Edward Gregory, Donald Gimson, Jack Ayling and Leslie Mullen.
Spider's Web by Agatha Christie. The play was produced by Jack Ayling, and featured Wilfrid Squirrel, Dennis Juba, Leslie Mullen, Rose Ayling, Pat Mason, Agnes Barnett, Terry Taylor, George Bowler, Donald Gimson, Norman Robinson and Derek mason.
1959: Pig in a Poke by Mabel and Dennis Constanduros. It was directed by Jack Ayling, and featured Margaret Morgan, Marion Richardson, Peggy Start, Norman Robinson, Rita Bowman, Joan Freestone, Malcolm Harvey, Stan Morgan and Les Mulllen
Sailor beware! by Philip King and Falkland Carey. It was directed by Jack Ayling, and featured Susan Ellis, Martin Gates, Pearl Harvey, Stan Morgan, Rose Ayling, Marjorie Pickering and Terry Taylor.
1960: Doctor in the House by Ted Willis from the novel by Richard Gordon.
Nude with Violin by Noel Coward. The play was directed by Stan Morgan, and featured Jack and Rose Ayling, Mary Naylor, Terry Taylor, Pat Mason, Denis Juba, Diane Price, Jack Freestone, Margaret Morgan, Marjorie Pickering, Derek Mason, Chris Thornelowe, Stan Morgan and Susan Ellis, and was produced by Stan Morgan.
1961: The Noble Spaniard by Somerset Maugham featured Peggy Start, Donald Gimson, Rita Bowman, Ann and Bill Challoner, Monica Spencer, Stan Morgan, Joan Freestone and Leslie Mullen, and was directed by Jack Ayling.
Goodness how Sad by Robert Morley, featuring Pearl Harvey, Rose Ayling, Marion Richardson, Marjorie Pickering, Bill Challoner, Dennis Juba and Roy Lewis. It was produced by Peggy Start.
1962: Charley's Aunt by Brandon Thomas featuring Bill Matthews, William Hurst, Bill Challoner, Terry Taylor, Pat Mason, Rita Bowman, Robin Garston, Geoffrey Wilson, Marjorie Pickering and Enid King. It was produced by Stan Morgan.
The secret tent by Elizabeth Addyman, featuring Rita Bowman, Reg and Enid King, Les Mullen, Kath Garston,Jack Freestone. and June Groocock. It was directed by Norman Robinson
1963: When we are married by J.B. Priestley featured Monica Spencer, Terry Taylor, Jack and Rose Ayling, Barbara Hargreave, Dennis Juba, Norman Robinson, Leslie Mullen, Kath Garstone, Geoff Wilson, Marion Richardson, Constance Stopper, Susan Ames and George Bowler, and directed by Robin Garston. The play was awarded scond place in the Leicestershire County Council full-length play festival. It was previously performed in 1952: Misses Stopper and Richardson, and Messrs Ayling and Robinson played the same parts as in 1952.
1964: See how they run by Philip King featured Susan Ames, John and Marie Nixon, Reg King, R Bowman, Norman Robinson, S. Morgan, Jack Ayling and S Wesson.
The Heiress by Ruth and Augustus Goetz (based on Henry James' novel Washington Square) featured Lydia Knott, Jack Ayling, Marie Nixon, Rita Bowman, Margaret Trewin, Marilyn and Barry Preston, Les Mullen and Marion Richardson. It was directed by Marjorie Pickering. As in 1963, the play was runner-up in the Leicestershire Full-Length play festival.
1965: Miranda by Peter Blackmore featured Anne Deeble, John Nixon, Marjorie Pickering, Stan Morgan, Marion Richardson, Beryl Mullen, Jack Ayling and Monica Spencer. It was directed by John Nixon and Rita Bowman. John Nixon took over the part of Nigel at 2 weeks notice when the original actor had to drop out.
Ladies in Retirement by Edward Percy and Reginald Denham featured Monica Spencer, Rita Bowman, Rose Ayling, Dennis Juba, Marie Nixon, Anne Deeble and Brenda Perkins. It was directed by Marjorie Pickering. .
1966: Blythe Spirit by Noel Coward featured Brenda Perkins, Rita Bowman, Les Mullen, John Nixon, Marjorie Pickering, Rose Ayling and Rosemary Jones; it was directed by Jack Ayling. Earlier in the year the first Act only had been performed at a social event (with a different cast and Director).
The Farmer's Wife by Eden Philpotts featured Jack Freestone, Marion Richardson, Marjorie Pickering, Jack, Rose and Hilary Ayling, Monica Spencer, Les Mullen, Rita Bowman, John Nixon, Madge, Mandy and Stephen Yates, Dennis Juba, Bill Trewin, Sandra Culpin, Stan Morgan,and Geoffrey Wilson. It was directed by Jack Ayling.
1967: Three one-act plays were performed, namely There's No Problem by Gwynneth Jones, featuring Madge Yates, Stan Morgan, Pat Mason, Dennis Juba, Marie Nixon and Sylvia Carter, directed by Marjorie Pickering : The Monkey's Paw by W W Jacobs (dramatised by Louis N Parker) featuring Jack Ayling, Marion Richardson, Phil Usherwood, Ken Culpin and John Nixon; it was directed by Jack Ayling and Still Waters by Delsie Darke featuring Geoffrey Wilson, Lydia Knott, Beryl Mullen, Pamela Gibbins and Terry Taylor, and was directed by John Nixon.
There was no Autumn production, due to casting difficulties.
1968: Man Alive by John Dighton featured Les Mullen, Rita Bowman, Terry Taylor, Lydia Knottt, Marjorie Pickering, Rose Ayling, Madge Yates, Dennis Juba, Ken and Sandra Culpin, Sylvia Carter and Stan Morgan. It was directed by John Nixon and Jack Ayling.
Someone Waiting by Emlyn Williams featured John Nixon, David Small, Lydia Knott, Iris Wood, Rita Bowman, John Bird, Sylvia Clifford, Jack Ayling,and Marion Richarsdson. It was directed by Rose Ayling.
1969:Lady Audley's Secret by Brian J. Burton featured Les Mullen, John Bird, David Small, Hilary Ayling, Madge and Mandy Yates, Anne-Louise Wakefield and John Nixon. It was directed by Jack Ayling.
Count your blessings by Ronald Jeans featured Maureen Sutton, Rita Bowman, Madge Yates, John Bird, Des Bates, Marjorie Pickering, Paul Waring, Rose Ayling and Sandra Culpin. It was directed by Pamela Gibbins.
1970: The Rape of the Belt by Benn W Levy featured Madge Yates, Paul Waring, Rose and Hilary Ayling, John Bird, Terry Smith, Rita Bowman, Pamela Gibbins, Maureen Sutton and Marjorie Pickering. It was directed by Rose Ayling. It is believed that this was the first production where John Boyd was involved with the lighting.
The Murder of Maria Marten by Brian J. Burton featured Laurence Juba, Paul Waring, Jack and Hilary Ayling, Rita Bowman, Mary Wenning, Marion Richardson, Pamela Gibbins, John Bird, Maureen Sutton, Marjorie Pickering, Madge Yates and John Nixon. It was directed by Jack Ayling .
1971: The Full Treatment by Michael Brett featured Jo Geaney, Stephen and Madge Yates, Maureen Sutton, Rose and Hilary Ayling, John Nixon, John Bird, Paul Waring, Mary Wenning, and Laurence Juba. It was directed by Madge Yates.
Night must fall by Emlyn Williams featured Jack Aying, Rita Bowman, Marjorie Boyd, Paul Waring, Maureen Sutton, Madge Yates, Anne Beagley, Michael Moore and John Bird. It was directed by John Nixon.
1972: No Time for Figleaves by Duncan Greenwood and Robert King featured John and Marie Nixon, Marjorie Boyd, Madge Yates, Marjorie Pickering, Eric Ridding, Mary Wenning, Maureen Sutton and Ann Beagley. It was directed by John Bird.
Waiting for Gillian by Ronald Millar featured John Bird, Madge and David Yates, John Nixon, Michael Montgomery, Marjorie Pickering, Eric Ridding, Rose Ayling and Marureen Sutton. It was directed by Paul Waring.
1973: The Bride and the Batchelor by Ronald Millar featured Julie Brown, Marjorie Pickering, Rita Bowman, Jack and Hilary Ayling, Mary Wenning, Paul Waring, John Bird. It was directed by John Nixon.
Gaslight by Patrick Hamilton featured John and Marie Nixon, Rita Bowman, Madge Yates and Jack Ayling. It was directed by Rose Ayling.
1974: No Productions due to "difficulty in casting".
1975 A letter from the General by Maurice McLoughlin featured John and Marie Nixon, Jill Abell, Jack and Hilary Ayling, Rita Bowman, Marjorie Pickering, Eric Ridding and Maureen Sutton. It was directed by Madge Yates.
Off the Deep End by Dennis Driscoll featured Madge Yates, Margaret Trewin, Jack and Rose Ayling, Kate Sinclair, Eric Ridding, Paul Waring and John Nixon. It was directed by Rita Bowman and John Nixon.
In 1976 and 1977 the Society put on a Pageant in Bradgate Park.
Pink String and Sealing Wax the cast included Simon Randall, Jack Ayling, Joy Tyres, Diana Holden, Kate Sinclair, Denise Symmonds, Steven Yates, Amy Pollard and Eric Ridding.
1977: Two one-act plays were performed: namely Ma Vatch and Still Waters
The late Edwina Black by William Dinner and William Morum featured Rita Bowman, Maureen Sutton, Paul Waring and John Nixon. It was dierected by Jack Ayling.
1978: Cat among the Pigeons by Duncan Greenwood featured Derek Pinkney, Joy Tyers, Eric Ridding, Rose Ayling, Kate Sinclair, Maurice Pettifor, Denise Symmonds, Simon Randal and Diana Holden. It was directed by Jack Ayling.
Two one-act plays were performed, namely George by Derek Hickman featured Derek Pinkney, Diana Holden, John and Maire Nixon, Rose and Hilary Ayling, Celia Pinkney, Paul Waring and Eric Ridding: It was directed by Eric Ridding and Face the Music by Barry L Hillman, featuring Kate Sinclair, Maureen Sutton, Madge Yates, Liz Lenten, Jacquie Yates and Joy Tyers: it was directed by Madge Yates.
1979: Mystery at Blackwater by Dan Sutherland (based on "The Woman in White by Wilkie Collins) featured Paul Waring, Helen Atkinson, Maurice Pettifor, Kate Sinclair, John and Marie Nixon, Rose and Hilary Ayling, Diana Holden, David Bowen and Brenda Wheeler. It was directed by Jack Ayling.
It is believed that this was the last play with which Jack Ayling was involved. He had been instrumental in starting the society in 1947, and had been involved in most productions over the intervening 32 years. Both he and his wife, Rose Ayling, died in 1979.
1980: Strike Happy by Duncan Greenwood featured Marie Nixon, Katherine Mason, Derek Pinkney, Peter Watson, Paul Waring, Sonia Pitchers, Joy Tyers, Maureen Sutton and Kate Sinclair. It was directed by John Nixon
1981: Murder in Company by Philip King and John Boland featured Simon Randal, Derek and Celia Pinkney, Paul Waring, Des Bates, Marie Nixon, Kathryn Mason and Hilary Ayling. It was produced by John Nixon
The Reluctant Debutante by William Douglas Home featured John and Marie Nixon, Kate Sinclair, Joy Tyers, Gillian Bates, Kathryn Mason, Peter Watson and Simon Randal. It was directed by Paul Waring and Derek Pinkney
1982: Spring and Port Wine by Bill Naughton featured Paul Waring, Des and Gillian Bates, Marie Nixon, Kathryn Mason, Chris Kerslake, Barry Cook and Hilary Ayling. It was directed by Derek Pinkney,
Outside Edge by Richard Harris featured Derek and Celia Pinkney, Tom Clarke, Des and Gillian Bates, Hilary Simms, Chris Kerslake, Linda Richardson and Barry Cook. It was directed by Paul Waring and Kate Sinclair
1983 The Deep Blue Sea by Terence Rattigan featured Tom Clarke, Des Bates, Chris Kerslake, John and Marie Nixon, Joy Tyers, Linda Richardson and Barry Cook. It was directed by Paul Waring
A"Christmas Entertainment" evening was held, which included a "Potted Panto" (Ali Baba).
1984 Dead on Nine by Jack Popplewell featured Barry Cook, Paul Waring, Sally Anderson, Des and Gillian Bates, John Nixon and Celia Pinkney. It was produced by Derek Pinkney
Man Alive by John Dighton featured Barry Cook, Sally Neath (nee Anderson), Des and Gillian Bates, Hilary Ayling, Derek Pinkney, Linda Richardson, Marie Nixon, Maureen Suttton, Colin Atkinson, Mike Erwin, Barry Goldsmith, Maureen Webb and Maurice Pettifor. It was produced by John Nixon The play had been previously performed in 1968.
1985: Hobson's Choice by Harold Brighouse featured Barry Cook, Sally Neath (nee Anderson), Des Bates, Hilary Ayling, Derek Pinkney, Linda Richardson, Mike and Sarah Erwin, Barry Goldsmith, Chris Kerslake, Pat Wood, and Paul Waring. It was produced by Derek Pinkney
Separate Tables by Terence Rattigan featured Barry Cook, Alistair Cook, Gillian Bates, Linda Richardson, Marie Nixon, Joy Olsberg, Freda Warrington, Maureen Webb, Colin and Margaret Atkinson, Mike Erwin, Pat Wood and Ginny Boyd. It was directed by John Nixon
1986: Lord Arthur Savile's Crime by Constance Cox featured Barry Cook, Des and Gillian Bates, Linda Richardson, Sally Neath, Paul Waring, Colin and Margaret Atkinson, Hilary Wilson and Barry Goldsmith. It was directed by Derek Pinkney.
1987: Darling I'm Home by Jack Popplewell featured Barry Cook, Gillian Bates, Sally Neath, Alistair Cook, George Whittaker, Colin Atkinson, Hilary Wilson and Joy Olsberg. It was directed by Paul Waring.
The Edge of Darkness by Brian Clemens featured Sue Charles, George Whittaker, Colin and Margaret Atkinson, Hilary Ayling and Derek Pinkney. It was directed by Derek Pinkney.
1988: A Bedful of Foreigners by Dave Freeman featured Barry Goldsmith, Des Bates, Barry Cook, Sally Neath, Derek Pinkney, Joy Olsberg and Hilary Wilson. It was directed by Alistair Cook.
1989: Panic Stations by Derek Benfield featured Barry Cook, Des and Gillian Bates, Sally Neath, Tom Clarke, Colin and Margaret Atkinson, Hilary Wilson and Joy Olsberg. It was directed by Paul Waring.
The Geeese are getting fat by Arthur Watkyn featured Sally Cook, Colin and Margaret Atkinson, Ian Briers, Andrew Stamford, Marie Nixon, Paul Waring, Barry Cook, Sally Neath, Derek Pinkney and Hilary Wilson. It was directed by Alistair Cook.
1990:The Linden Tree by J. B. Priestley featured Rachael and Becky Pinkney, Tom Clarke, Sally Neath, Maureen Webb, Ian Grogan, Andrew Stamford, Colin Atkinson, Marion Pidcock and Joy Olsberg. It was directed by Derek Pinkney.
Party to Murder by Olive Chase and Stewart Burke featured Derek and Becky Pinkney, Des and Gillian Bates, John Nixon and Margaret Atkinson. It was directed by Colin Atkinson.
1991: Shut your eyes and think of England by John Chapman and Anthony Marriott featured Derek Pinkney, Linda Richardson, Hannah Rigby, Anita Gillingham, Des and Gillian Bates, Barry Cook, Colin Atkinson and Derek Pinkney. It was directed by Derek Pinkney.
The Haunted through lounge and recessed Dining Room Nook at Farndale Castle by David McGillivray and Walter Zerlin Jnr. featured Marie Nixon, Eve Holden, Anita Gillingham, Doreen Ingram, Pat Wood, Jacqueline Wilkins, Sally Neath,and Mary Barby. The Morris Dancers were John Nixon, Alan Clarke, Andrew Stanford, Ian Briers, Brian Anderson, John Sugden and Nigel Wilkins. It was directed by Alistair Cook. The play was entered into the Leicestershire Full-Length Play festival, 1991/2.
Christmas Crackers.The first half consisted of carols and entertainments by members; the second half was a "Potted Panto", The Fairy's wish, featuring Joy Olsberg, Paul Waring, Colin and Margaret Atkinson, Michael and Debbie Rigby, Amanda Nutt, Des and Gillian Bates, Hannah Rigby, Helen and Barry Cook and Tom Clarke. It was directed by John Nixon.
1992: The Lady Purrs by Ted Willis featured Shirley Mulholland, Colin and Margaret Atkinson, Des and Gillian Bates, Sally Neath, Anita Gillingham, Stewart Greenway, Hannah Rigby, John Sugden and Ian Grogan. It was directed by Linda Richardson.
When we are married by J.B. Priestley (previously performed in 1952 and 1963) featured Sally Neath, Ian Briers, Maureen Webb, Amanda Nutt, Andrew Stanford, John Nixon, Tom Clarke, Joan Moss, Derek Pinkney, Stewart Greenway, Anita Gillingham, Margaret Atkinson, Doreen Ingram and Paul Waring. It was directed by Colin Atkinson.
1993 Night must fall by Emlyn Williams featured Tom Clarke, Anita Gillingham, Sally Neath, Stewart Greenway, Joan Moss, Hannah Rigby, Ian Briers, Helen Cook, and Colin Atkinson. It was diirected by Derek Pinkney.
Season's greetings by Alan Ayckbourn featured Tom Clarke, Joy Olsberg, Anita Gillingham, Colin Atkinson, Barry Cook, Derek Pinkney, Gillian Bates and Stewart Greenway. It was directed by Alistair Cook
1994: Pull the Other One by Norman Robbins featured Anita Gillingham, Colin Atkinson, Barry Cook, Sally Neath, Yvonne Woodford, Des Bates and Derek Pinkney. It was directed by Paul Waring
1995: Cat's Cradle by Leslie Sands featured Tom Clarke, Anita Gillingham, Barry Cook, Margaret Atkinson, Sally Neath, Yvonne Woodford, Derek Pinkney and John Nixon. It was directed by Colin Atkinson.
How the Other Half Loves by Alan Ayckbourne
1996: A Murder has been arranged by Emlyn Willimas featured Joy Olsberg, Bob Heath, Anita Gillingham, David Fellows, Sally Neath, Colin and Margaret Atkinson, Barry Cook and Hilary Wilson. It was directed by Paul Waring
September: Easy Stages by N J Warburton
(A One-Act play, produced by Colin Atkinson and featuring Derek Pinkney, John Sugden, Gillian Bates, Hilary Wilson, Felicity Fellows, Margaret Atkinson and Des Bates. The play was preceded by a performance by Shepshed Singers.)
Christmas Capers
1997: Two and Two make Sex by Richard Harris and Leslie Darbon featured Robert Willson, Jacqui Wilkins, Gillian Bates, Derek Pinkney, Anita Gilingham, Colin Atkinson. It was directed by Colin Atkinson.
And a Nightingale Sang
1998: Play On by Rick Abbott
April 1999: Scarlet Ribbon by Rae Shirley
Produced by Brenda Hooper, and featured John Rolinson, Anita Gillingham, Sally Neath, Emma Turner, Yvonne Woodford, Charlie Springthorpe, John Williams and Gillian Bates. John and Anita stepped in at short notice after the original performers (Colin and Margaret Atkinson) had to drop out due to illness.
December 1999: A Month of Sundays by Bob Larby
This play was directed by John Williams, and the cast was John Rolinson, Tom Clarke, Hannah Johnson, Robert Willson, Yvonne Woodford and Emma Turner
November/December 2000: Sing On by Rick Abbot
Directed by Alistair Cook. The cast was Yvonne Woodford, Janet Barnett, Gillian Bates, Wynn Morris, Anita Gillingham, Emma Turner, Alistair Cook, Robert Willson, Sally Neath, Lesley Baker, Des Bates, Sam Neath, Charlotte Willson and Bob Heath. Lesley, Wynn, Sam and Charlotte were making their maiden performances for the society.
March 2001: A Miscellany (poems and sketches) followed by "Show Business" (a one-act play)
Directed by Brenda Hooper, and featuring Anita Gillingham, Sally Richardson, Tom Clarke, Janet, Hilary and Emma
December 2001: They Call it Murder
Directed by Keith Vessey, and featuring Anita Gillingham, Sally Richardson, Lauren Price, Wynn Morris, Robert Willson, Janet Barnett and John Rolinson
May 2002: "From a Distance" and "Goodbye my Darling"
Two One-Act Plays by Barrie W Farnell, directed by Kevin Oliver. "From a Distance" starred Sammy Neath, Di Simmonds and Tom Clarke, while "Good-bye my Darling" starred Lesley Baker, Dave Bown, Gillian Bates, Janet Barnett, John Nixon, Sally Richardson, Kevin Oliver and Anita Gillingham
December 2002 "How the Other Half Loves" by Alan Ayckbourne (previously performed in 1995)
Directed by Keith Vessey, and featuring John Rolinson, Anita Gillingham, Sally Richardson, Robert Willson, Janet Barnett and Dave Bown
Easter 2003 Music Hall
May 2004 "Living Together" by Alan Ayckbourne.
Directed by Alistair Cook, and featuring Joe Costello, Anita Gillingham, Lesley Baker, Yvonne Woodford, Dave Bown and Tom Clarke
Dec 2004 "A Christmas Carol" by Charles Dickens, adapted by Guy Williams.
April 2005 "Black Comedy" by Peter Shaffer.
December 2005 "Jack and the Beanstalk"
March/April 2006 "Holiday Snap" by Michael Pertwee and John Chapman.
November/December 2006 "Red Riding Hood" by Steve Harrison.
March/April 2007 "The Winslow Boy" by Terrence Rattigan.
November/December 2007 Cinderfella, a Pantomime by Joe Costello.
April 2008 Two and Two Together by Derek Benfield.
December 2008 Radioacting - a revue .
May 2009 Table Manners by Alan Ayckbourne.
December 2009 Aladdin by Derek Dwyer & Merlin Price, With additional material by Peter Upton.
May 2010 Love begins at 50 by Raymond Hopkins.
December 2010 Suit Yourself, a revue.
May 2011 Quartet, 4 short plays by Ian Hornby.
December 2011.Dick Whittington, a pantomime by Derek Dwyer and Merlin Price, with additional material by Peter Upton. The Friday production had to be cancelled due to a power cut which affected the village.
May 2012. A Perfect Wedding by Robin Hawdon, featured Marie Willet, Geoff Bourne, Peter Warlow, Sally Cooke, Tracey Hastie and Anita Gillingham.
Dec 2012 A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens, adapted by Shaun Sutton (a different version of a Christmas Carol was performed in 2004).
April 2013. Where there's a Will by Ian Hornby.
November 2013.The Wizard of Oz by Alfred Bradley from the story by L Frank Baum.
May 2014 Snake in the Grass by Alan Ayckbourne.
December 2014 A Christmas Cracker, a revue.
April 2015 Don't Dress for Dinner by Marc Camelotti, adapted by Robin Hawdon.
The production due to take place at Christmas, 2015 had to be cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances.
May 2016 The Gioconda Smile by Aldous Huxley. This is a classic 'whodunnuit'. In 1940's suburbia, Emily, the invalid wife of rich art dealer Henry Hutton, dies in mysterious circumstances. Did she die at Henry's hand to make room for a younger woman? Was the Nurse the culprit or was someone else involved in her demise? We followed the twists and turns of the plot through to its final denouement as the suspect sits in the condemned cell.
This play is a rare excursion into drama for the playwrite, who is mainly remembered for his novels including Brave New World and Eyeless in Gaza.
We welcomed two new actors to Newtown Linford, Carol and Elaine (who was making her acting debut).
December 2016. Our planned production, The Dragon of Wantley, had to be cancelled when our leading actor, John Rolinson, suffered an illness. John has been a stalwart of the Society for around 20 years.
May 2017. Two one-act plays, Sharks in the Custard by Tony Layton, and Two Sisters by Caroline Harding
December 2017. The production planned for 2016, The Dragon of Wantley, was performed as a joint production with Anstey Players.
May 2018. Rude Awakenings by Nicolas Ridley, and Losing It by Derek Webb, two One-Act Plays.
November/December 2018. Comfort and Joy by Mike Harding