The history of Summerseat Players goes back to early 1968, when a group of amateur theatre enthusiasts got together to form a new dramatic society. Initially they had no funds, equipment or permanent home - nothing in fact but enthusiasm, theatrical experience, and determination to build the society into one of the leading amateur drama groups in the district.
They were fortunate in finding St Wilfred's, a small church hall in Waterside Road, Summerseat, badly in need of repair, plus the sympathetic assistance of the Reverend J D Driver, the rector of Holcombe. The players had found a home - and the church had found a group willing to assist with essential maintenance.
The players had an eye to the future and obtained first option to purchase should the Church Commissioners decide to sell the property. A wise move, for only four years later it came on the market for £3000 - a small fortune back in 1972. Somehow the necessary funds were raised and they owned a comfortable little theatre seating 146 and presenting 5 or 6 shows a year.
In 1990, the Theatre Royal was purchased with the help of loans from members, patrons and others interested in live theatre. Over the last 10 years, not only has the Theatre Royal developed into a thriving base for amateur theatre, but it also acts as a broader base for for other arts groups. A thriving youth theatre also meets regularly on Friday evenings and Saturday afternoon.
