1950-2010
In June 1950 a group of people met in St. Gabriel’s Church Hall in Aldersbrook and decided to form a dramatic society – St. Gabriel’s Players was re-born. The original St. Gabriel’s Players had been formed in 1925, but was disbanded in 1939. The first play in December 1950 was “A Play for Ronnie”, and one of the cast in that play is still an active member of the group.
The Players continued to perform in St. Gabriel’s Hall until 1967 when, owing to new safety regulations, they were obliged to move. The Community Hall, Brading Crescent presented itself as a suitable alternative and the Players have been there ever since, changing their name to Aldersbrook Players in 1971.
The 1950s were very successful, the Players presenting usually two, sometimes three, plays a year. The ‘60s were lean years when, at times, only one play was performed. However, they weathered the storm and, with a welcome injection of members from other societies, which had been forced to close, in the ‘70s were able to get back to two productions a year. 1970 saw their first pantomime and this formula of two plays and a pantomime has continued ever since.
We can never be accused of not being versatile. as they have many times entertained local groups with Music Halls. During their 60 years they have performed 115 plays and 39 pantomimes and many Music Halls.
This is very much a DIY society, building and painting sets, designing and making all the costumes and the Players now have a very extensive wardrobe of outfits for both plays and pantomimes. All our Directors are acting members of the group.
It is a very friendly group with a good team spirit that has often been noted by the press and adjudicators. New members, with or without experience, are welcomed and given every opportunity to prove themselves. Like all amateur groups, the Players are suffering from a dearth of younger members and welcome anyone from 16 years.