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The British Players, originally formed in 1964 as The British Embassy Players by the late John Palmer and a small group of keen Embassy staffers, was incorporated in the District of Columbia as a non-profit 501(c)(3) organisation in March 2006. The Group's mission remains as it was during its 42 years at the British Embassy: bringing British plays and shows to Washington area theatre lovers and giving to British and American charities as funds permit. To date, the Group has been instrumental in providing over $400,000 for both British and American charities. Though no longer performing at the Embassy Rotunda (due to renovations there), the Players are honoured currently to have as their Patroness the wife of the British Ambassador to the United States of America, Lady Sheinwald. Read more about our patrons. |
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While at the Embassy, the Players membership was restricted to primarily British and Commonwealth-born members with about 1/3 being American members. That restriction no longer applies and membership is open to all who have an interest in supporting and promoting British theatre. All our members have provided their talents and enthusiasm to building this Group into a well-known Washington area institution. We look forward optimistically to continuing to promote appreciation and understanding of British theatre and continued excellence in Washington area community theatre. |
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The Players' major productions include comedies, dramas and pantomimes by British playwrights, musical revues and the annual Old-Time Music Hall (2007 marks Music Hall’s 43rd continuous year). The Players also stage one-night shows as fund-raisers for local organisations, as far afield as Annapolis or even Charlottesville, Virginia. |
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Scenes above painted by Gail McGuire (Blanco) and Ernesto Blanco for 1974 Music Hall set and printed in "The British Players Present The First Twenty-Five Years, 1964-1989." |
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Social Activities |
In addition to putting on shows, the British Players arrange social events for members and guests such as picnics, car rallies, Christmas parties, Guy Fawkes celebrations, garden parties, and even the occasional garage sale with afternoon tea and discounted group visits to theatres. |
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A further facet of the Group's involvement in the Washington area community is its sponsorship of the annual Ruby Griffith Awards (RGA) for Excellence in amateur theatre production. These awards are named for an early mentor of the Players and attract entries from over 30 local community theatre groups each year. The annual presentation ceremony is held at a social event to honour all participating groups. |
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Board of Directors |
Management of the Players is effected by an annually-elected Board of Directors that is currently comprised of:
Other Appointments:
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Trustees of the Players' Investment Fund are:
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