IF you want to add a new dimension to your life, try joining a drama group. But watch out, because amateur dramatics is a hobby that fast becomes addictive. Jean Stratford, of New Bradwell, was asked to join the New City Players in their production of 'The Sound of Music' - that was thirteen years ago and she is still with them.

The founder members of the New City Players were originally involved in the Wolverton Drama Group. But in 1972 they broke off to concentrate their efforts on musicals, pantomime and comedy. Their producer, Joan Walker, is responsible for choosing their material and ensuring that members of the cast make the most of their roles.

Joan has been producing the New City Players' productions ever since the group was formed. When new members join they are asked which aspect of the theatre interests them. Some people prefer to work backstage, while others like to tread the boards and once they have made their choice they rarely change roles.

The group welcomes children and is always on the look-out for new members. At the moment they have ten younger members in the ten to fifteen age group "But there is no age limit" Jean Stratford explained. "The children have very good parts in the pantos and doing them seems to give them confidence. After all, it takes courage to get on the stage."

Most members of the New City Players had not had any previous experience in amateur dramatics before they joined the group, but Jean believes that taking part in productions soon brings out any hidden talents. She said, "You meet new people and you find out what you can do yourself. If you can't sing perhaps you can dance."

Membership of an amateur dramatic group involves a great deal of hard work and time. Not only do you have to attend re- hearsals, but there are also many other time-consuming tasks such as making costumes, or helping to build and paint sets. And, of course, there is always the last-rninute rush to learn your lines before the big night.

The New City Players borrow some costumes from the Aylesbury Amateur Dramatic and Operatic Society, but most members make their own. "You end up doing your costume instead of your housework" said Jean, "but it's all back to normal after the production is over."

Rehearsals take up every Wednesday and Thursday evenings and occasionally the members get together to run a jumble sale to raise funds for new equipment or scripts. Last month the New City Players were busy preparing for their 'Robinson Crusoe' pantomime and they are already planning their next production. But most members would agree that it is all worthwhile. The audiences seem to think so too. At least 200 people turn up to watch the production, every time. "We are a keen group", said Jean, "if you like doing it and it's something you want to do, it is not hard work. We have great fun at rehearsals and when we get up on stage - that is the finishing touch."

The photographs which appeared alongside this article are shown as part of the 'Robinson Crusoe' page.

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