26th January 2026
Thame Players are throwing the doors wide open on Saturday 7th February to welcome everyone who’d like to find out what goes on behind the scenes at the Players Theatre! If you’ve ever wondered what’s involved in putting on a theatrical production and how it’s staged, come to the Players Theatre in Thame on 7th February and find out more!
You’ll be able to see how the theatre works, from front of house to backstage, and meet some of the (often highly skilled) volunteers who are behind every show that’s put on at Thame’s only dedicated theatre. You’ll find out how to get involved, and receive 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 as they arrive to see a show.
You’ll be able to talk to members of our friendly team about subjects such as -
Acting and Directing. If you’re interested in acting or directing, this is your chance to receive advice and coaching from Thame Players’ actors on stage – go for it!
Sound and Lighting. Members of our tech team will show you round our impressive sound and lighting equipment, and you can have a go at pressing the buttons. This is a great opportunity if you’d like to see what’s involved and test your skills!
Backstage. You can see for yourself what the backstage crew get up to, so that everything happens on cue and shows run smoothly. Members of the team will be pleased to show you what’s involved and how it all comes together.
Set Building. Whether you’re handy with a screwdriver, keen on woodwork or DIY, or you’re a dab hand with a paintbrush, these skills are vital in the theatre. You’ll be able to talk to members of the team and try a few effects yourself.
Costumes and Make-up. Sourcing, creating 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, why not see some of Thame Players’ costumes up close, watch hands-on demos and experiment with make-up effects!Front of House. If you’re good at socialising and can pour drinks behind the bar, why not spend time with members of our front of house team? They’re the friendly faces audiences meet when they arrive. Find out how you could use your people skills, by chatting to members of the 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 local area on Saturday 7th February, when there’ll be opportunities to find out what’s involved in putting on a show and how the theatre ticks. You’ll discover what we do and how we do it, from acting and directing to set building, and sound & lighting. So please visit the Players Theatre on 7th February - you’ll learn a lot and it’ll be a fun experience too!”
