The History of Portsmouth Players
Founded in 1926, the Portsmouth Players have been at the heart of the city’s theatrical life for nearly a century. Since our debut production of The Gondoliers in 1927, we’ve brought a vibrant mix of beloved classics and bold contemporary musicals to life, delighting audiences and nurturing talent across generations.
We stage high-quality productions at some of Portsmouth’s most iconic venues, including the Kings Theatre, Theatre Royal and our very own studio theatre at The Barn, Milton Park. Each space offers a unique creative canvas, allowing us to explore innovative staging and create unforgettable audience experiences.
Our productions are led by local and professional directors and supported by a passionate team of local creatives. Whether it’s Rodgers & Hammerstein, Sondheim, Schwartz, or something entirely new, our repertoire is as diverse as our membership.
We’re more than just a theatre company – we’re a family! We actively engage with our audiences who attend our shows through social media and chatting to them, gaining their feedback and striving to ensure that musical theatre is accessible and exciting for everyone, regardless of age, background or experience.
If you are a performer, musician, technician, theatre enthusiast or just want to be part of our world, then why not drop us a line? Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, there’s a place for you in the Players’ family. Come and be part of something special. Explore our upcoming shows, meet the team and discover how you can get involved – just click on ‘get involved’. Come on, give it a try!
The Portsmouth Players – be part of the magic!
Want to get involved?
Become part of a legendary company that’s been lighting up Portsmouth for nearly 100 years!
Whether you’re a backstage hero, a spotlight-loving performer or just want to stay connected to the magic – we’ve got a place for you. Learn about how you can become a part of the players and support our goal of bringing the stage to life!
