One village.
Sixty-two productions. A theatre story you’ll want to relive.
Explore 300 pages packed with 270 images and reviews of 62 major Blewbury Players productions.
After starting the project in late 2024, Steve has finished the book in time for our 50th anniversary celebrations.
Funny, factual and brilliantly researched, this book takes you behind the scenes—from post-war Blewbury and the buzzing drama years of the 60s and 70s to the moment the Players took up the baton from the Stockwells Players of Aston Upthorpe. See how a local group became a true community cornerstone —and earned a reputation far beyond the village.
Perfect for Blewbury locals, past cast and crew, theatre-lovers, and anyone who loves the charm (and chaos) of village life.
Publication date: 14 July 2026
Price: £25
We would be very grateful if you would consider pre-ordering to help us cover the up-front costs of printing. Every pre-ordered copy will be signed by Steve!
Which was the biggest grossing show?
Which show made the biggest loss?
Who was the only actor who knew how to pronounce ‘poor’, and in which play?
How should you pronounce ‘poor’?
When did the Director have to step in to replace the leading lady at the last minute?
How many operas have the Players produced?
Who advised that striptease would not be a suitable choice of entertainment?
What must every set incorporate?
What was the early morning queue for tickets at Blewbury Antiques called?
Who was thought ‘cold’ by one critic and ‘warm’ by another?
Who prevented the Players getting a licence to perform a play in 1997?
Who allowed the Players to adapt her book saying she now regarded it as public property?
Which was the only summer production not at Orchard Dene?
Find the answers to all these questions and many more …So many of you will have taken part in the Players’ productions in the past or will have relatives and friends who have done so - see if you can spot them in some of the photographs of past productions – or perhaps a younger version of yourself!