History
UPHAM PLAYERS
Many years ago, when Upham W.I. put on a play, it was such a success that the idea of forming a drama club for the village was conceived. The idea proved popular and the first meeting attracted 30 interested people. Upham Players was born!
The first committee meeting was held on 28th November 1978 with Dave Plumb elected as the first Chairman and subs were set at £1.00 per person. The opening production was to be two one act plays, “A Fishy Business”, produced by Cyn Kimble and “Among Those Present”, produced by Rosemary Everdell . Performed at the Upham Village Hall to a full house, these were a resounding success.
The first of many pantomimes was “Red Riding Hood” and this was sold out two weeks before production dates. Many pantos’ were staged over the years, some with as many as 30 children taking part, each panto more elaborate (and longer) than the last!
This was quickly followed by an adaptation of an Oscar Wilde story, ”Lord Arthur Savilles Crime”, produced by Dave Plumb, fresh from his portrayal as a lugubrious wolf.
An “Old Tyme Music Hall” presided over by former Upham School Headmaster Michael Gladwell saw the very first performance of the famous “Upham Mens’ Chorus”, choreographed by Marg Plumb.
In 2000 the group moved into the New Millennium Village Hall and though it was sad to see the end of the old hall, all the wonderful amenities were very much appreciated, especially the heating. Our first production with the new facilities was “Oliver”, directed by Shelley Pitter and produced by Nick Lowe.
Over the years the group welcomed many people who joined for just one or two productions and others who became keen supporters and are now fixtures. There is even one person on the original Committee who is still on the Committee now, Cyn Kimble, who recently organised our Spring Production.
Upham Players have given friendship, fun and entertainment for 40 years and have raised a considerable amount for good causes along the way.
