The Enfield Players
70th Anniversary
Bird Cherry Tree
Celebrating 70 Years of The Enfield Players
1956 - 2026
As you open this page, the curtain rises on 70 remarkable years of The Enfield Players.
While no website can truly recreate the smell of the greasepaint, the anticipation in the wings, or the roar of the audience as the curtain falls, we hope this page offers a glimpse into our rich history. This page celebrates the productions, personalities, achievements, friendships and memories that have shaped The Enfield Players since its beginnings in 1956.
What started as a small group of enthusiasts connected with the then Mackworth Congregational Church, meeting in a house on Enfield Road, has grown into a thriving theatre society presenting a diverse range of productions to audiences across generations. Over seven decades, more than 200 productions have been brought to life through the dedication, creativity and passion of countless members.
This anniversary is a celebration not only of those who have stood in the spotlight, but also of the many individuals whose work has taken place behind the scenes. Actors, musicians, directors and choreographers have been joined by costume makers, set builders, lighting and sound technicians, front-of-house teams, producers, stage managers and volunteers—all contributing their time and talents to entertain and inspire our local community.
To mark this special milestone, members of The Enfield Players came together in May 2026 to sponsor and dedicate a Bird Cherry tree in this woodland (Plot HH088). More than a commemorative gesture, this tree stands as a living symbol of our theatre company—its past, present and future.
Its roots honour those who came before us: the founders, performers, directors, backstage teams and supporters whose commitment established the foundations upon which we continue to build. Their work may be complete, but their legacy remains deeply embedded within the society.
Its trunk represents today's members—the people who learn lines, rehearse music and dance routines, build scenery, paint sets, stitch costumes, sell programmes, welcome audiences and keep the spirit of The Enfield Players alive. They provide the strength and continuity that allows the company to flourish.
Its branches reach towards the future, symbolising generations yet to come. Long after today's cast members have taken their final bows, new performers, musicians, technicians and volunteers will continue the story, creating new productions and making memories of their own.
Like the Bird Cherry tree, The Enfield Players has grown through the seasons. It has weathered challenges, celebrated successes, and continued to flourish through the dedication of its members and supporters. The tree serves as a lasting reminder that our society is built not merely on productions and performances, but on people, community and shared experiences.
This tree is for everyone who has been part of our story—past, present and future. A place to reflect, remember, celebrate and look ahead. A living tribute to seventy years of friendship, creativity and community spirit.
As we celebrate this milestone anniversary, we do so with gratitude for all who have contributed to The Enfield Players over the years, and with excitement for the chapters yet to be written.
For all those who came before, all those who stand together today, and all those who will tread the boards in the years to come—thank you for helping The Enfield Players' story continue to grow.
A Special Message from Our Patron - Brenda Blethyn
To commemorate the planting of our Bird Cherry tree and celebrate this special milestone in the history of The Enfield Players, our patron, Brenda Blethyn, has kindly recorded a video message which can be viewed via the links below.
Brenda has shared a long and valued connection with The Enfield Players, serving as our Honorary Patron for the past 30 years. This relationship began through a family connection: her brother, Terry Supple, was for many years a prominent acting member of the society and helped establish Brenda's early links with the group.
Over the years, Brenda's support has reflected her appreciation for community theatre and the important role it plays in nurturing talent, encouraging creativity, and bringing people together. Her continued interest in the society has been greatly valued by generations of members.
As The Enfield Players celebrate their 70th Anniversary, we are also proud to mark 30 years of Brenda's patronage. Her association with the society remains a source of immense pride, and her encouragement continues to inspire performers, volunteers and audiences alike.
We are delighted that Brenda has joined us in commemorating our anniversary tree — a lasting symbol of our past, present and future — and we thank her for her warm wishes and enduring support.