About Us
Bringing Live Theatre to the Community Since 1955
Bishops Cleeve Players is a friendly amateur dramatic society based in Bishops Cleeve, near Cheltenham. Founded in 1955, we have been entertaining local audiences for over seventy years with a wide variety of productions, from classic dramas and murder mysteries to comedies, pantomimes and original works.
Our very first production was Agatha Christie’s The Hollow in 1956 — a play we were delighted to revisit as part of our 70th anniversary celebrations. Since then, hundreds of local people have taken to the stage, worked behind the scenes and helped make the Players an important part of the community.
Our Productions
We normally stage two full-length productions each year at the beautiful Bishops Cleeve Tithe Barn, our current home. The venue provides an intimate setting where audiences can enjoy high-quality community theatre in the heart of the village.
In recent years we’ve also taken smaller productions to village halls and community venues across the local area, enabling us to bring live theatre to new audiences and perform in a variety of settings.
Over the decades we’ve performed an extraordinary range of plays, including classic dramas, farces, thrillers, pantomimes, original productions and one-act plays. Many of our productions have received awards and recognition from amateur theatre festivals across Gloucestershire.
Our archive of previous productions reflects not only the history of the society but also the enthusiasm and creativity of the many members who have been part of the Players over the years.
More Than Just Acting
Putting on a play is a true team effort. While our audiences see the actors on stage, every production depends on directors, stage managers, lighting and sound operators, set builders, costume makers, prompt, front-of-house volunteers and many others working together.
Whether you’re an experienced theatre-maker or trying something completely new, there’s always an opportunity to get involved.
We also run our Thespian Wannabees, a relaxed acting group for people who enjoy acting for fun or who would like to build their confidence before performing in public.
A Friendly Social Group
Although producing theatre is what brings us together, the friendships we make are just as important.
Throughout the year members enjoy a range of social events, including our popular Summer Social and Christmas Party, along with informal gatherings at the pub. These events are a great way for new and existing members to get to know one another away from rehearsals.
Many of our members have been with us for years, while others have only recently joined. Everyone is made to feel welcome.
Looking Back
At our formation in 1955, Bishops Cleeve Players performed in the Cheltenham Playhouse, moving to the Bishops Cleeve Tithe Barn in 2007.
The society has continually evolved to reflect changing audiences and new ideas while remaining true to its original aim: bringing people together through the enjoyment of live theatre.
Today we continue that tradition by producing entertaining, high-quality amateur theatre for our local community while providing a welcoming environment for anyone who would like to become involved.
Join Us
Whether you’d like to act, work backstage, help front of house or simply find out more about the society, we’d love to hear from you.
Visit our Get Involved page to discover the many ways you can be part of Bishops Cleeve Players, or head to our Contact page and get in touch — we’re always happy to welcome new faces.