Words: Linda Birch
Did you miss them last year? Following the success of their 2020 production of Beauty and the Beast, Bramley Parish Theatre Players are back this year, both bigger and better than ever before and in a brand new venue.
Like many other theatre companies, they were very disappointed last year that they were unable to put on any sort of live production.
All areas of the arts have suffered greatly during the past two years with many groups struggling to survive, especially with the financial challenges.
The committed members were determined that Bramley Parish Theatre Players (BPTP) would survive.
Keeping in touch with each other over Zoom with quizzes, dancing, play readings and even a mini panto, it nowhere near replaced the excitement and anticipation of a live production.
This year they are thrilled to be back in business and are currently busy rehearsing ‘Sleeping Beauty’ for the entertainment of the Bramley community and beyond.
Due to the closure of St Margaret’s Church on Newlay Lane, the first challenge was to find a new venue. St Margaret’s had been home for over 60 years and finding a suitable replacement wasn’t easy.
But fortunately, the annual pantomime will be performed inside Leeds West Academy’s auditorium during Leeds February half term. The experience of moving the production to a larger and more modern venue is proving to be a welcome distraction to the sadness felt at having to leave the old home behind.
The group have also had to find new rehearsal venues and storage spaces. Fortunately, they have been made very welcome at both Trinity Methodist and Venerable Bede churches in Bramley, which have enabled them to continue to function.
The Players greatly appreciate the community support they have received as they would have really struggled to survive without it.
BPTP have encountered many challenges over the years but this has possibly been the most demanding year to overcome.
But they were very committed to maintaining Bramley’s Pantomime tradition as 2020 marked the anniversary of 100 years of panto history within Bramley Parish. Due to the pandemic, they had to postpone the planned celebration of this incredible milestone but this has been rescheduled for May this year.
BPTP includes a wide range of ages and experience as they aim to be as inclusive as possible. This year they have been fortunate to welcome some exciting new talent to the group to work alongside the existing cast and crew.
They are bringing to life a fairy-tale favourite set in a medieval court with fairies good and bad, and lots of magical surprises!
Incredibly, they have managed to keep ticket prices the same as in 2020 and are offering fabulous family entertainment at excellent value for money. Although Covid restrictions have been somewhat eased, please be reassured that the safety of all is still a priority and reasonable precautions will still be in place.
BPTP look forward to seeing you at Leeds West Academy Theatre, between Thurs 24 and Sat 26 February for our 2022 production of ‘Sleeping Beauty’. There are four performances and you can book online at www.ticketsource.co.uk/bptp .
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