'When I was asked to share a few memories of Richings Players I wasn't sure where to start - perhaps in 1926, the year that we both came into being (just like the Queen).My family had moved from London where I had been involved in acting at the Chanticleer Theatre, and so my first thought was a chance of joining Richings Players. 

 

I was told they were looking for men, my husband was welcomed - a reasonable actor, but an excellent director. 

 

That was in 1968, and the rest is history. 

 

I was even allowed to direct a play 'The Diary of Anne Frank'!In those days our performance took place in what was then the Congregational Hall in Richings Park. 

 

It was in 1980 that the players found a new home in the village hall in Iver.  By this time I had been involved in every production, mostly acting but also painting sets, making props & prompting at rehearsals etc.I have been fortunate enough to enjoy many roles over the years and it would be difficult for me to say which was my favourite part, but two very special highlights were when my son Nick & I, on separate occasions, were winners at The Chalfont Festival. 

 

However, I think my happiest memory must be my open air production of 'Larkrise to Candleford' - even though the weather could have been better!I think that the players are so fortunate in having such a good backstage crew. 

 

The sets get better and better, and the costumes are out of this world - starting with the expertise of Peggy Hall, who came to live in Richings Park in the 1950s, and to be followed by Linda Lucas and her band of helpers.

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Margaret Wilkins - Past President - Richings Players