From school play to community stage: the Highams Players celebrate friendship, talent and a love of theatre ahead of their next production in Wanstead this month. Rina Davison reports
The Highams Players was founded in 1939 by former pupils of Woodford County High School, known at that time as Highams School. Two of the students formed a drama society and had to search for men for the male parts as it was an all-girls school! Since those humble beginnings, our society has grown and we pride ourselves on being not just members of a drama society, but friends.
Sue and Howard Walters have been members since 1988. Sue is Honorary Secretary and has taken part in many productions over the years. Howard is Honorary Treasurer and a dab hand at set building. Without the loyal support of people like Tony Wright, who has been setting up our lights and sound for many years, and Ruth Lisk, who has joined us recently on the refreshments side (what would Highams be without our famous free tea, coffee and biscuits in the interval?), we would not be able to function!
Our director Dennis Joyce chose Something to Hide for our next performance because thrillers are very popular with the Highams audience, and this is a very good one! In this suspenseful tale, novelist Howard Holt’s country home becomes the setting for a dark crisis when his wife, Karen, arrives late one night, distraught after accidentally killing a young woman in a car accident. This will be Dennis’ eighth production for us and he is enjoying working with a lovely bunch of actors, some of whom are joining us for the first time, while others are of long-standing. I am one of the more recent members. I joined in 2023 when I was looking to add some post-pandemic fun to my life!
Like countless others, Si Hussain’s first experience of acting was at school. Following a long hiatus, his passion was rekindled when he joined Highams Players in 2017. We also have Bobbie Hindman, who joined Highams Players in 2012 and since then has spent many a happy evening either treading the boards or huddled in the prompt corner trying to keep wayward actors on track! Another of our regulars is Stephen Aminzade, who has been involved with Highams for nearly five years and Something to Hide will be his fifth play. Returning to the stage for the second time is Paskell Meal, who attended the American Academy of Dramatic Arts NYC, and although she decided to trade in the professional world of acting for working with the LEGO group, she is happier than ever. Joining the cast for the first time is Harry Brierley, a graduate of East 15 Acting School, who brings fresh talent and energy to the stage. He’s joined by fellow newcomer Jessie Smith, whose passion for theatre began in early childhood.
Would you like to join us? Whether on stage or behind the scenes, new members are always welcome. Or simply join us in the audience – no show is complete without you!
For more information and to book tickets, call 020 8924 6987 or visit highamsplayers.co.uk
