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New Era Players

The New Era web site is at www.neweraplayers.org. Twitter @NewEraPlayers or Facebook.

We are now doing fortnightly improv sessions. See below.

Last production

Where

New Era Theatre, Wash Common, Newbury RG14 6NU.

Box office

booking.westberks.gov.uk for 7th and 8th, New Era web site for 9th and 10th.

Review of Night Must Fall

27th November to 6th Decemberr 2025

Review from the Newbury Weekly News.

Edge of seats time

Night Must Fall is a psychological, thriller set in the Isolated home of Mrs Bramson, a sharp-tongued elderly woman who lives with her bored niece, Olivia. Their quiet routine is shaken when Dan, a charming but mysterious young man, is hired to work in the house. With a recent murder in the nearby woods, tension rises as Dan’s friendly exterior slowly slips, revealing a darker truth beneath.

This production, thoughtfully directed by Stephen Bennett, builds tension with steady, confident pacing and a strong atmospheric style.

The acting across the cast is excellent. Georgie Gale gives a standout performance as Mrs Bramson, capturing her sharp humour and stubborn nature with great comic timing. Pippa Higgins makes Olivia compelling and relatable, showing her inner conflict and growing fascination with Dan. Harry Forkin (Dan) delivers a gripping performance, shifting from charming and confident to sinister with ease, keeping the audience guessing throughout. Andy Kempe as Inspector Belsize also deserves praise for a convincing and curious portrayal of the detective slowly piecing events together. His calm, questioning presence adds to the growing sense of unease.

Strong supporting performances add humour, warmth, and texture to the story.

Sean Strange as Hubert brings a gentle awkwardness and sincerity to the role, offering a subtle contrast to the darker energy in the house. Lucy Slatter gives a believable and touching performance as Dora, the innocent maid caught up in events far bigger than she understands. Her vulnerability adds an important emotional layer.

AMY TRIGWELL-JONES

About New Era

This small, friendly and very successful theatre group was established in Newbury in 1978, and we are lucky enough to have our own small theatre in Wash Common. (click here for a map). We produce several plays each year covering a wide variety of theatrical styles.

Improv

See below. Contact neilmaggie14@gmail.com

New Players Acting Membership

Share the experience of performing on stage; join the challenge of set-building or the creativity of costume design; enjoy the teamwork in whatever direction your talents take you. You could be an active participant in our future productions, or join us for play readings, workshops, theatre outings and a variety of social events. Whether you are experienced or just have bags of enthusiasm, you can be assured of a warm welcome.

If you are interested in becoming an acting member please email our membership coordinator at the address .

New Era - ImprovNew Era - Backstage halp wanted

Audience Membership

To book tickets for any of our productions, please contact our Box Office on 07919 916009 for more information.

Previous productions