On Saturday 27th January Thame Players are throwing the doors wide open to welcome everyone who’d like to see how it’s all done to come and look round the theatre

If you’ve ever wondered how a theatrical production is staged and what goes on behind the scenes, this is the time to find out!

You’ll be able to see how the theatre in Nelson Street OX9 2DP works from front of house to backstage, meet the (often highly skilled) volunteers who are behind every show put on, find out how to get involved yourself, and get some hands-on training, whether you’re interested in treading the boards, using your tech or DIY skills, helping with costumes and props, or greeting audiences at front of house.

You’ll be able to talk to members of our friendly team about any of these subjects:

Acting and directing – If you want to have a go at performing, this is your chance to grab a mic and recite or sing on the stage! You’ll receive advice and coaching by Thame Players’ actors, and music and play texts will be provided.

Sound and lighting – Members of the theatre’s tech team will show you round the impressive sound and lighting equipment, and you can have a go at pressing the buttons. If you’d like to improve your skills and you’re curious to see what’s involved, this is a great opportunity.

Backstage – You can see for yourself what the backstage crew get up to, so that things happen on cue and shows run smoothly. Members of the backstage team will be pleased to show you what’s involved and how it all comes together.

Set-building – If you’re handy with the screwdriver, you like woodwork or DIY or maybe  using a paintbrush, these skills are vital. You’ll be able to talk to members of the team, and try out a few effects yourself.

Costumes and make-up – Sourcing, making or adapting costumes is quite an art. Make-up is equally skilled. If you’re artistic, you like sewing or you’re handy with a powder brush, you can try some of Thame Players’ costumes, experiment with make-up effects and watch hands-on demos.

Front of house – If you’re good at socialising with people and can also pour the drinks, the front of house team are the friendly faces audiences meet when they arrive to see a show and gather in the foyer. To see how you could use your people skills, you can chat to members of the theatre’s front of house team.

Wayne Gibson, Open Day coordinator at Thame Players, said: “The theatre is made up of a community of people with different skills who make the magic happen. We’re looking forward to welcoming anyone and everyone from Thame and the local area on Saturday 27th, when there’ll be opportunities to find out what’s involved in putting on a show and how the theatre ticks. You’ll see what we do and how we do it, from acting and directing to set building, sound & lighting, and much more. So please come and see us at the Players Theatre on our Open Day – you’ll learn a lot and have a fun experience too!”