MARION SAUVEBOIS speaks to a drama group with an interesting past

ROOTED in Swindon’s railway history, the Western Players have adopted many guises over the past century – but their actors’ passion and devotion to their craft has remained intact.

The Western Players originated as the Mechanics’ Institute Amateur Theatrical Club in 1854.

The club became the Mechanics’ Institute Dramatic Society in 1861, the Great Western Railway Amateur Players in 1898, the Great Western Railway (Swindon) Mechanics’ Institution Amateur Theatrical Society by the early 1900s, the GWR (Swindon) Amateur Theatrical Society in 1933, the Great Western Players in 1936, and the Western Players in 1949.

Their name may have changed but their entertainment mission has stayed the same.

“Today the aims are the same, namely to bring stage entertainment to the people of Swindon and to have fun doing it,” said group member and publicity officer Annie Harvey.

“There is a very friendly co-operative feel to the whole group. What they all have in common is the desire to do well, the ability to be team players and the love of the theatre.

“It puts the Western Players in the enviable position of having no prima donnas, no cliques, with everyone working to support productions, whether they are directing, on stage, backstage, front of house or publicity.

“It is a healthy society, mixing those with experience and those with youthful enthusiasm to best advantage – for the society and for the audiences.”

The group counts about 50 members, although some prefer backstage jobs. And any amateur thespian is welcome to join and experience the thrill of performing in front of a live audience.

For several years now, each new project has featured at least one newcomer to the group on stage.

Member Tony Manders added: “For anyone who’s been on stage, they’ll understand that although there are the nerves and the slight fear of going on, the first time there’s a positive reaction from the audience it’s one of the most amazing feelings – you’ve connected with a whole group of people.”

The Western Players production of Journey’s End opens on November 5 at the Arts Centre. Visit westernplayers.co.uk.

The Western Players meet on Monday and Tuesday between 7pm and 9.30pm at Broadgreen Community Centre for rehearsals, which run for around 10 to12 weeks prior to a production. Membership is £10. For more details contact secretary John Fisher at inquiries@westernplayers.co.uk or on 07584 417649. Alternatively visit westernplayers.co.uk.