For many years the Pantomime Society of Kirkby Malzeard provided an annual pantomime and also presented revue shows. However members decided to try other forms of drama and the name of the group was changed to Kirkby Malzeard Players in the spring of 2000.

One of the first productions was "Too Long an Autumn" by Jimmie Chinn which was entered into the All England Drama Festival of One Act Plays. This won the first round at the Georgian Theatre in Richmond, moved on to and won the second round at the Frazer Theatre in Knaresborough, and then on to the third round at the Joseph Rowntree Theatre, York. Although it did not win there, a total of eight cups were won by this production.

Since then a number of pantomimes, plays, sketches, workshops and melodramas have been extremely well supported and received in the village. One of the highlights was a locally written play "Lost and Found in Kirkby Malzeard" (by K. Hallett and J. Mass) which marked the Queen's Golden Jubilee. Although the Mechanics' Institute is the main venue for productions, this special play was also performed in the Main Street of the village.

The production of Pinocchio in March 2004 involved 24 local children, some of whom took leading parts. They were ably supported by senior members of the Players, and all four performances were enthusiastically received - raising £1,000 for Kirkby Malzeard School Funds.

Following on from the outstandingly successful pantomime, "Jack & The Beanstalk", in February 2006, came "Megan and the Golden Key". This was a play written specially for younger actors - of whom there are many in the village and surrounding area. This was a chance for them to show their talents and tackle something a little different. Again, the profits from this successful production went to the MIVH Refurbishment Fund.

The production of "CINDERELLA" - written by Stuart Ardern and Bob Heather - was directed by Ann Simpson again and staged in the MIVH on 7th, 8th & 9th February 2008. This was a most colourful event with beautiful costumes and scenery, and of course plenty of "boos and hisses" of a traditional family pantomime.

"SNOW WHITE & THE SEVEN DWARFS" was produced in February 2010 by Pam Andrew and was a most successful production with almost full houses for each of its four performances in the Mechanics Institute Village Hall. It was obvious that the cast thoroughly enjoyed themselves throughout and the happy atmosphere passed on to the audience each time.

PANTOMIME 2011

"SLEEPING BEAUTY" 17th, 18th & 19th February 2011

This Pantomime was written by Alan Frayn, and directed by Pam Andrew with her usual skill and expertise.

When the Kirkby Malzeard Players presented its 2011 Pantomime "Sleeping Beauty", it played to appreciative and near capacity audiences at all four performances. The Director, the cast and everyone who helped with the production should feel proud that they staged a village pantomime of such high quality and that they gave enormous pleasure to their audiences, and obviously experienced great enjoyment for themselves.

A C K N O W L E D G M E N T S

A big thank-you is due to the many people who support the Players, both on and off stage. Without their ingenuity and willingness to "muck-in" and turn their hands to all sorts of jobs, it would be impossible to stage any production - they are all much appreciated.

New members are always very welcome within the Society - acting, directing, stage management, scenery, costumes, etc. No experience is necessary or required - do come and give it a go.

For further information please telephone 01765 658649 or 01765 658393.