Hello everyone,

Autumn has arrived after a spell of extreme wet weather, bringing with it the wonderful autumn colours. While the dark nights may not be everyone’s favourite, we have some good news to brighten your evenings – our special Poetry & Prose evenings are back on the horizon.

First, let’s bask in our recent achievements.  September was a success with its supper and Rehearsed Play Reading evening, featuring not just one play but three – Alfred the Great and The Spanish Armanda, both written and directed by Pip Rolls, and From Here to the Library by Jimmie Chinn, directed by Anne Henderson.

This event met with enthusiastic responses from our audience, showcasing the incredible talent within the Gage.  A special thanks goes to our dedicated stage crew, for making us actors look good and whose hard work behind the scenes made these performances possible. The stage management created an exquisite set for From Here to the Library, making the audience feel they were part of the world on stage – thank you.

Extended gratitude to our Front of House team, in particular for the lovely cakes which added a delightful touch to the evening. A final big thank you must go to our two directors, Pip and Anne, for their support and unwavering encouragement.  This achievement is a testament to everyone for their hard work and dedication.

Looking ahead to October

We are excited to announce the return of our Poetry & Prose evenings at 8pm on Thursday 17^th October. Whether you prefer to read or simply listen to others, it’s a lovely way to spend an hour or so, and to enjoy poetry and prose from the comfort of your home. If you would like to join us, please contact us at friends@thegageplayers.co.uk for the link to join our Zoom get together.

November Winter production: 28, 29, 30 November, at 8pm at Riddell Memorial Hall

After giving much thought and consideration to the talent shown at the auditions, we have cast our “Little Grimley” plays and are now busy rehearsing throughout October.  I am thrilled to announce that I will be making my debut as director for these two plays by David Tristram – the hilarious, Last Tango in Little Grimley and Lockdown in Little Grimley,  The first play follows the now famous local amateur drama society’s desperate attempt to save their group by staging a risqué comedy, and Lockdown explores the challenges of life during a lockdown, which are a lot funnier than you might imagine.

Performances will be at 8pm on 28, 29, 30 November 2024 at the Riddell Hall, Walton on theHill. Tickets will be £12.50 from the box office friends@thegageplayers.co.uk  or phone 01737 812703.

Front of House – Beryl will be wanting as much help as possible, so any volunteers will be very welcome to have a go – bar, raffle, programmes, and coffee/teas, etc – again, contact us if you’d like to join the fun at friends@thegageplayers.co.uk 

Please keep the dates free as you won’t want to miss the laughter and entertainment these plays will bring!

Be Part of the Drama – Advertise with the Gage Players

We are thrilled to offer local businesses an opportunity to advertise in our upcoming programme. If you want to advertise or know someone who does by placing an advert in our theatre programme, you not only support the arts but also reach our local community.  Whether you’re looking to promote your business, share a special offer, or simply show your support to the Arts, our programme is the perfect platform. The deadline to submit your advert is Friday 8^th November to Clare at  friends@thegageplayers.co.uk

Advertising options and rates

• 1/2 Page £25.00
• Full Page 30.00
• Inside Back Cover Full Page 35.00
• Inside Front Cover Full Page 35.00
• Back Cover Full Page 40.00

 Looking ahead to the Gage’s 75^th Anniversary year 2025

We are excited to announce that The Actress by Peter Quilter and directed by Debbie Nichols will open our 75 years celebrations next spring, with many more productions to be unveiled soon!  This captivating play delves into the life and challenges of a seasoned actress – and it perfectly captures the essence of our theatre’s 75-year journey, reflecting the humour and heartfelt moments that have defined our legacy.  Keep a look-out for upcoming auditions and join us in bringing this wonderful production to life.

Key Updates Dates for your diary

• Poetry & Prose evening, 8pm via Zoom on Thursday 17^th October via zoom

• The Last Tango in Little Grimley & Locked Down in Little Grimley by David Tristam – at 8pm on 28, 29, 30 November at the Riddell Hall

We look forward to seeing you in October at the poetry evening, and don’t forget to book your tickets for the Little Grimley plays!

Bernie

Chair, Gage Committee