History
Our Story
More than 77 years of theatre, friendship and community.
From village pantomimes and church productions to ambitious modern dramas and comedies, the Funtington Players have been entertaining audiences and bringing people together for generations.
The Ladykillers 2011
1946 The Story Begins
The earliest documented production linked to today's Funtington Players was Mother Goose, presented by St Mary's Youth Fellowship and Funtington Scouts. The driving forces behind the production were Edith Dunlop and her husband, the Reverend Norman Duncan, recently returned after spending five years in a prisoner-of- war camp.
1949 A Name is Born - FUNTINGTON PLAYERS
The name "The Funtington Players" first appeared in print for a production of Wasn't It Odd.
Quiet Weekend : F.Woods, H.Lower, J Boys and F.Lower 1957
1957 Creating A Reputation
Throughout the 1950s the society developed a reputation for high-quality village theatre, attracting enthusiastic audiences and building a loyal membership.
1964 A Challenge to overcome
When the Women's Institute Hall was closed because of safety concerns, the Players suddenly found themselves without a home. The society refused to disappear. Productions continued, demonstrating the resilience that has remained a hallmark of the Funtington Players ever since.
1966 Keeping the tradition alive
Under the guidance of Enid Dunlop, Passion Plays and Nativity Plays were staged at St Mary's Church. One Christmas production featured an unforgettable local performer, Amos the donkey, who remains one of the most memorable cast
members in the society's history.
1970 Back Home
After years of fundraising and the award of a Government grant, the village hall was restored and transferred to a village trust. The Players returned to their stage with renewed confidence, marking the beginning of the modern era of the society.
1975 Raising the Bar
The production of Anastasia, directed by Henry Parkinson, became one of the company's landmark achievements. The lavish costumes, striking staging and acclaimed performances set a standard that would influence productions for years to come. Anastasia became one of the society's landmark productions, remembered for its spectacular staging and acclaimed performances.
Twenty First Century Theatre
Funtington Players continued to present ambitious productions, combining imaginative staging, detailed costumes and memorable performances.
The company's commitment to quality remained undiminished as new audiences, new members and new opportunities helped shape the next chapter of its story.
An online presence was established, programmes and publicity material moved to full colour, and a new logo and visual identity replaced the old version remembered affectionately by many.
Pam Parkinson, Macro Wilson and
Edith Dunlop in Anastasia 1975
2004 Arms and the Man
2011 Loot
2018 The Ghost Train
2026 The Perfect Murder
"A new generation of productions carrying forward a
proud theatrical tradition."
