About us
Amateur theatre in Belper, Derbyshire, since 1936.
What we do
Belper Players is a dramatic society whose aim is to educate its members in all aspects of theatre arts, whilst putting on entertaining performances for the general public. We also try to have a good time in the process!
We usually put on two or three plays a year, from classics such as Shakespeare to farces and the odd pantomime. We focus on plays rather than musicals. There are smaller pieces too: the occasional murder mystery, evenings of short plays, and new writing by our own members.
Most of our shows are at the Strutts Community Centre on Derby Road. We have also performed at the Lion Hotel, outdoors in Belper Memorial Gardens and, for Cinderella in December 2026, at Belper Community Theatre at Belper School.
We are a registered charity (number 259222) and a member of the National Operatic and Dramatic Association (NODA).
Our history
Belper Players was founded in 1936. Our first production was As You Like It, in the open air at the Memorial Gardens in June 1936, and every show we have a record of since then is on this site.
In 2010 we moved to the Strutt Centre, which has been our main home since. In 2011 we took A Midsummer Night's Dream outdoors to Belper Memorial Gardens, and it won NODA East Midlands' award for best overall production. In 2020, when theatres were closed, we put A Christmas Carol online.
In 2016 we celebrated our 80th year with new plays by local writers alongside established favourites. For our 90th, in 2026, we're bringing pantomime back to Belper with Cinderella.
Jeanne Crane, centre, in The House on the Lake, 1977
Jeanne Crane
Our late President was part of the society for 88 years. She acted in at least 20 of our productions, designed costumes and sat on the committee for longer than anyone can remember.
Questions about us
Where do you perform?
Most of our plays are at the Strutts Community Centre on Derby Road, Belper DE56 1UU, where there is free parking at the rear and on Gibfield Road. Some shows are elsewhere, and each show's page gives its venue. More about us.
What kind of shows do you put on?
Plays of all kinds, from Shakespeare and the classics to comedy, farce, new writing by our own members and the occasional pantomime. Browse our past productions to see the range.
Do you put on a Christmas show?
Often. Over the years we've staged pantomimes, A Christmas Carol and our own Seasonal Tales in December, and Nickleby – A Tale for Christmas won a NODA award in 2012. Our next show is always on What's On.
How long have you been going?
Belper Players was founded in 1936. Our first production was As You Like It, in the open air at the Memorial Gardens, and every production we have a record of since then is on this site.
Have you won any awards?
Yes. We won NODA East Midlands' award for best overall production in 2011 for A Midsummer Night's Dream, and for best play in 2012 for Nickleby – A Tale for Christmas. See our awards.
Are you a charity?
Yes. Belper Players Amateur Dramatic Society is registered charity 259222, and a member of the National Operatic and Dramatic Association (NODA).
How do I get in touch?
Email enquiries@belperplayers.com or call Lou on 07852 484567. For tickets, text or call 07733 916423.
Awards
Our productions have won NODA East Midlands awards for best play and best overall production.