History

The most active theatre company in Cheltenham

The Playhouse Company

The Company, established in 1960, thrives on lively and enthusiastic members who enjoy working together, in all capacities, to produce a wide variety of theatrical productions from Sondheim to Pinter.

We have a very active social life, from painting the scenery to devising our own entertainment evenings, theatre visits, manning the club bar, Green Room productions, playing skittles and Ten Pin Bowling.

If you have a commitment to local theatre and all this sounds just like what you are looking for, do drop us a line at the Playhouse as all our existing (and exhausted) members always need new ideas and assistance, both on and off stage.

The company stages three productions a year, one of which is usually a musical.

History of the Theatre

In 1716, the first Mineral springs were discovered in Cheltenham, transforming it into a spa. Lords and ladies from all over the country came to drink the waters because it was so healthy. In 1788, His Majesty King George III came to Cheltenham to drink the waters.

1806 saw the opening of the Baths built by Henry Thompson. It boasted 14 warm baths, fitted with marble and Dutch tile, one large cold bath plus smaller ones and a boiler capable of heating up to 190ºF.

In 1898, the baths were bought by the Cheltenham Corporation and converted into a swimming pool and slipper baths. Just before the end of the second World War, the Cheltenham Council realised the town’s lack of theatrical facilities, and converted the swimming pool into a theatre.

In April 1945, the first play was performed - 'Arms and the Man' by George Bernard Shaw. Shortly after that, the Playhouse Company was formed with the primary responsibility being to put on quality productions in the Theatre when it would otherwise have been dormant.

Membership

Membership of the Playhouse Company is only £8 per year, but you are also expected to join the Playhouse Theatre itself, which owns the lease of the theatre. Its membership fee is £30 per year but half price for first-time members and also if you join from June. - So why not join us.

Members

Most members range from 16 upwards There is a very sizable group of young people in their 20s & 30s.

The Playhouse Theatre

The company performs at the Playhouse Theatre which is a registered charity no. 1088889

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