PERRYWAY PLAYERS AND LIVE WIRE

Amateur Dramatic Society 

Brief History

Perryway Players were formed on 16th November 1937 by the amalgamation of several smaller amateur dramatic groups and initially called themselves Frampton and District Amateur Dramatic Society. After a couple of meetings it was decided that the name was too cumbersome and a shorter name would be more appropriate. 

After several suggestions including the Severn Bores, it was decided the name should be Perryway Players. The first production was performed in February 1938 - Toby Jug, After The Event/Moment Musical & Poison Party.  There were further productions each year until 1941 when meetings stopped because of the war.   From records it appears that the group reformed in 1946 but there are no mention of productions again until 1951. 

The first full length play to be performed was Young Mrs. Barrington in 1954, thereafter two productions of plays each year until 1975 when the annual pantomime was introduced. Since then there has usually been two dramatic productions, one in Spring and the other in Autumn and the pantomime in January. 

Not long now until the 70th year!

Livewire

was formed in April 2002 by Pam Broomfield and Fran Phillips, both of whom are adult members of Perryway Players.  With the increasing number of children each year showing interest in participating in the performances, in particular, pantomime, both Pam and Fran realised that this was a need that should be addressed and ‘hey-presto’ Livewire was formed.   Now in is 4th Year Livewire have over 30 members ranging from 9 – 16 years.  The group generally meet up on a Wednesday evening (hall availability allowing) from  7 – 8.30pm during school term time, at the Community Centre.

It’s a fun group, with varied activities, ranging from improvisation sessions, games, workshops, rehearsals and summer shows out and about at local venues.  You may have seen us at Wick Court or Saul Lodge, not so long ago…….

But everyone loves Pantomime and this is the 4th Panto which Livewire have taken part in.   Its hard work, but really good fun with everyone in the team working together.  We all get such a buzz when performing, just ask any one of the youngsters.   So if you fancy coming along on a Wed evening, please do, we are always happy to welcome newcomers.

The Panto 2006 

The Panto for 2006 was the much loved story of CINDERELLA

Every year a Pantomime is performed on traditional themes (Oh yes it is). Audiences of nearly 200 enthusiastically join in the fun. For some strange reason, they particularly like the things that go wrong. Why is that?  

A particularly strong feature of this year’s production was the number of children and young people from “Live Wire” – the youth section of this illustrious group.

Cinderella was played by two young people – Rachel and Harriet who have yet to see their 15th birthdays! A strong cast of adults (well, adultish) led to an enjoyable experience for cast, crew and audience. Of special mention must be Cinderella’s stepsisters. Rapid costume changes, insulting the audience and fine singing voices brought tears to most people’s eyes.

Of course, nothing would have been possible without the backstage crew. Music, lighting, props, scenery etc. This takes months of preparation.

Without them, of course, the show could not go on

In this age of electronic entertainment, it is heartening that local theatre is alive and well, and that local people (nearly 500 of them!) are prepared to venture into the night to join in the fun 

 The CANCAN

“We’d just hate to smudge our lipstick – and PLEASE be careful with that needle and thread!”

 Burglar Bill

After the Panto, a storytelling workshop saw a one-off production of Burglar Bill. Youngsters heard the story being read, and watched it being performed.

They joined in some of the action, becoming ‘student burglars’.

Of course, they saw the error of their ways, and returned all the stolen goods

The Future

 Once one show is over, the question must be asked – “what next”. Well in the Spring of 2006, Live Wire will be performing the Golden Path.  An ambitious play – but we think they have the talent to do it proud.

 After that – who knows? If you are interested to join in – acting, backstage or just buying us drinks and sweets, contact

 Laurence Wood          Chair                 Tel 01452 740723

 Fran Phillips               Live Wire           Tel 01452 740885