The Gage Players Newsletter – August 2025

Hello everyone,          

I hope everyone is enjoying the lovely August weather and keeping well. It’s hard to believe that autumn is nearly upon us, and with it, we enter the final quarter of our special 75th anniversary year.  We have two fantastic productions lined up for you. First is ‘ Murder at the Fete’, a whodunnit where the audience becomes detective—prepare to put your sleuthing skills to the test! Then, to round off the celebrations, we’ll present the enchanting’ Enchanted April’, a heart-warming tale of friendship, transformation, and second chances. Both memorable evenings you won’t want to miss.  I’d like to take this moment to say a special thank you to Clare, Eileen, and Lorraine from the May Pageant Committee for their generous donation, which has helped tremendously to help mark this special anniversary

Looking ahead to 2026, we’re hoping to bring the ever-popular Abigail’s Party to the stage in the spring,  If this catches your eye, please register your interest early so we can coordinate and make plans well in advance. emailing friends@thegageplayers.co.uk

Key Updates

Murder at the Fete, written and directed by Pip Rolls – where the audience solve the mystery– Saturday 20th September

Who poisoned the jam that killed Donald, the not-much-loved banker? Was it his ‘friend’ who stands to inherit or was it his rejected mistress? Maybe it was his wife, who thinks he let down her father financially. But then again, it might be Margaret or Cynthia. Come and help us find out in the “Murder at the Fete” where the audience is key to solving the mystery!

The evening begins with a supper at 7pm  followed by the show which includes two intervals (don’t forget to bring your own picnic/ snacks and drinks ), the perfect opportunity to enjoy time with members, friends, and family before and during the dramatic entertainment. Tickets are £10 per head and available from the Box Office (01737 812 703) or by emailing friends@thegageplayers.co.uk

 To help our crew set up, please let us know by Wednesday 17th September to know how many tables you will need.

Enchanted April by Matthew Barber – Winter Production (27th, 28th, and 29th November)

Be sure to keep your diaries free this November for “Enchanted April”—but don’t let the promise of an Italian escape fool you! The story begins in London, where dreams of sun-drenched holidays seem far out of reach. As four women embark on a retreat that promises laughter, friendship, and the possibility of magic, you’ll discover that their adventure is anything but straightforward. With men entering the mix, the plot takes unexpected turns.  Come along to see how it all unfolds!

 Mark your calendars, book your tickets soon, and let’s make the close of our 75th anniversary year truly unforgettable!

 Dates for your diary

• Saturday 20th September:  “Murder at the Fete” with supper at 7pm, at the Riddell Hall
• 27th, 28th, and 29th November –   “Enchanted April” by Matthew Barber at the Riddell Hall

With warmest wishes,

Bernie

Chair of the Gage Committee
 
 

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List of Past Productions

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We have regular quiz nights at a local pub: watch this space. Please contact The Gage at friends@thegageplayers.co.uk if you would like to rise to the challenge.

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The Gage Players is registered as a charity in England and Wales (no 286837)