Palgrave Players Triumph at the NODA East Awards 2025

The Palgrave Players have done it! In a moment of sheer triumph, the amateur group has won Best Musical and also secured the Best Production in the East Region for 2024 at the prestigious NODA East Awards 2025. This incredible achievement marks a huge milestone for such a recently formed group, who have continued to captivate audiences with their dedication, talent, and passion for the arts.

A Victory Worth Celebrating

The group attended the NODA East Awards after receiving their first-ever nomination following a review of their production of Once: The Musical. And not only did they attend—they won! The shield for Best Production now belongs to the Palgrave Players, a testament to the team work, passion, community spirit and fun poured into every performance.

Director Nicola Diggins expressed her pride and gratitude, stating, "So incredibly lucky and proud to be part of the Palgrave Players and work with talented, dedicated members. You should all be very proud of yourselves! Keep the arts alive—it means so much to so many."

The Power of Community Theatre

Founded just three years ago, the Palgrave Players have quickly established themselves as a force in the local theatre scene. Their ethos—bringing people together through storytelling, music, and performance—has resonated deeply with audiences and critics alike. Their award-winning production of Once: The Musical was praised for its heartfelt performances and stunning musical arrangements, making it a truly unforgettable experience.

This victory is not just a win for the Players but for the entire community that has supported them. It highlights the incredible talent thriving in local theatre reflected in the production's youngest members, Holly and Lewis, taking the lead roles and key members of the cast, sound and lighting team beginning their involvement in theatre at Hartismere School.

Musical Director Vicky Tofte took huge pleasure in watching the Players grow their musical talent, "many of the musicians had never performed in public before or only recently started learning an instrument.  Grandma's violin was dusted off, accordions repaired and guitars restrung. Their dedication and hard work was inspiring as they not only learnt the music but also interacted with the scenes and actors.”

What’s Next for the Palgrave Players?

Fresh off their win, the Players are gearing up for their next production, Made in Dagenham, with auditions already underway. If their recent success is anything to go by, this upcoming show promises to be another spectacular display of talent and dedication.

Keep an eye on the website for more details about upcoming productions, check out the full list of winners at the NODA East Awards 2025(.

Congratulations to the Palgrave Players—here’s to many more standing ovations! 🎭✨

Made in Dagenham Casting call

Are you ready to join the cast of an unforgettable musical production?

Palgrave Players are revving up for their next show, Made in Dagenham!

We are looking for talented individuals of all ages to join our cast and crew. Whether you’re experienced or new to the stage, we welcome everyone who shares our passion for theatre to audition or sign up to help make this show come alive.

Based on the inspiring true story of the 1968 Ford sewing machinists strike in Dagenham, this vibrant and heartfelt musical will light up the stage with its spirited characters, toe-tapping music, and powerful storytelling.

🎶 Dates for your diary 🎶

Presentation of Made in Dagenham Tue 22nd April 7.30pm

Audition Prep and support Tue 13th May 7.30pm

Open Auditions Thur 15th May 7.30pm

All take place at Palgrave Church, Lion Road, Palgrave, Nr Diss.

Rehearsals are Tuesdays and Thursdays 7.30pm to 9.30pm

Show dates are the 23rd to the 25th of October at Garboldisham Village Hall.

Audition information

For character’s audition lines and songs, an audition pack can be downloaded here.

If you want to audition, play in the band or help with backstage, set design, costumes, props or front of house register here today.

Don’t wait – spaces are limited!

Please allow extra time to get to Palgrave Church on the 22nd of April for the Presentation of MiD. The C579 (Lion Road, Upper and Lower Rose Lane) will be closed. Parking around the church and Palgrave will be limited. Consider lift share, being dropped off or cycling.

For more information: click here

Palgrave Players Celebrate NODA East Nomination for 'Once the Musical'

Celebrating 'Once the Musical' – Best Musical 2024 Nominee

We are absolutely thrilled to announce that 'Once the Musical' has been nominated for Best Musical 2024 by NODA East! 🎉 This recognition is a testament to the incredible talent and dedication of our cast, crew, and everyone involved in bringing this beautiful story to life.

The NODA review praised the production, stating, "The heartfelt performances and stunning musical arrangements made 'Once the Musical' a truly unforgettable experience." We couldn't agree more!

This nomination is not just a win for us but for the entire community that supported and believed in this production. We are incredibly proud of what we have achieved together and are excited to see where this journey takes us next.

Thank you to everyone who made this possible – your hard work and passion are what make moments like this so special. Let's keep the momentum going and continue to bring amazing theatre to our community!

Musical Theatre Dance Workshop

Gislingham Village Hall, Eye, IP23 8JX

Saturday 1st March 2025

Join us for an exciting dance workshop led by the talented Lauren Cocklin, an accomplished performer and graduate of Italia Conti in London. Lauren has been dancing since the age of three and has graced the stage in iconic roles such as Dorothy in The Wizard of Oz, Wendy in Peter Pan, and Amber Von Tussle in Hairspray. With experience as Dance Captain for Spillers Pantomimes and standout performances in Fame and Romeo and Juliet for the National Youth Dance, Lauren brings a wealth of expertise and passion to this workshop.

💃 What to Expect:

• Dynamic Warm-Up: Get energized and ready to move!

• Musical Theatre Routine: Learn a fun and expressive routine designed for all levels.

• Performance Tips: Focus on movement, musicality, and enhancing your performance—even if you’re not a dancer!

✨ What to Bring:

• Comfortable clothing and suitable footwear (like trainers).

• Snacks and plenty of water to stay fueled.

• Most importantly, a positive attitude and a willingness to have fun!

Whether you're an aspiring performer, a seasoned dancer, or simply looking to try something new, this workshop is perfect for anyone who loves musical theatre and wants to express themselves through dance.
🎟️ Spaces are limited, so book your ticket today!Lauren is so excited to meet you and share her love of musical theatre. Don’t miss this unforgettable experience!

Palgrave Players announce show for 2025

Palgrave Players revving up for 2025

Palgrave Players have had a highly successful 2024 with sell out shows and their production of the musical Once being declared as “amongst the highest standard that I have ever witnessed on an amateur stage” by the National Operatic and Dramatic Association (NODA).

So it is with great excitement that Palgrave Players are announcing their next musical production, Made in Dagenham, a vibrant, feel-good musical based on the 2010 film, inspired by the true story of the 1968 Ford sewing machinists strike in Dagenham, England.  The talented cast of Palgrave Players will bring this thrilling and timely story to life on stage, accompanied by live music, under the musical direction by Victoria Tofte.

The show will run from the 23rd to 25th of October 2025 at Garboldisham Village Hall, promising an unforgettable evening of song, laughter, and powerful storytelling. 

The show’s producer, Cathal Prendergast, says “We welcome new members who would like to take part in our fantastic shows both front and back stage.  Visit www.palgraveplayers.com to find out about how you can be a part of the group”

If you can’t wait that long then grab your Stetsons and join us on the 4th and 5th of April 2025 for an unforgettable night at Country Nights! Enjoy lively dancing, soulful singing, and live music performed by the renowned Palgrave Players ensemble. It’s a hoedown you won’t want to miss.

Ticket sales for both shows will be available through www.palgraveplayers.com/tickets with early bookings recommended due to limited seating.

Show Details:

• Title: Made in Dagenham

• Dates: 23rd to 25th of October 2025 7:30pm and Saturday Matinee at 2pm

• Venue: Garboldisham Village Hall, Church Rd, Garboldisham, IP22 2SE

• Ticket Information: www.palgraveplayers.com/tickets

For Press Inquiries, Please Contact: palgraveplayers@gmail.com

About Palgrave Players:

Palgrave Players is a local amateur musical theatre group based in Palgrave, Suffolk. Founded in 2022, their journey has been filled with thrilling sell-out shows and provides a platform for local people from every walk of life to celebrate the arts in the heart of their community.

Palgrave Players is NODA (National Operatic and Dramatic Association) affiliated putting on at least one musical a year and performing high quality shows with a firm focus on having fun.

Howdy Partners!

Based on last year's successful, Celtic Nights, we'll be heading back to the Saloon for a night of country song and dance.

Performance dates are the 3rd, 4th and 5th of April 2025 at Garboldisham Village Hall.

Rehearsals will take place on Tuesdays and Thursdays at Palgrave Church.

If you want to take part, please complete this online form above.

There are roles for ensemble, soloists, musicians, director, MC Assistant, stage manager, back stage, front of house, costume and scenery.

First rehearsal to try out some songs and discuss the solos is on Thursday 28th November.

“This production was amongst the highest standard that I have ever witnessed on an amateur stage…”

We are thrilled to share a retrospective of our recent production, "Once: The Musical," performed by the Palgrave Players! This musical, based on the 2007 film, has won numerous awards, including 8 Tony Awards and a Grammy Award for Best Musical Theatre Album.

Our talented cast brought the story of friendship, love, and a shared passion for music to life with beautiful and challenging songs. Under the direction of Nicola Diggins and Vicky Tofte, and with choreography by Emily Philpot, the production was a true testament to the dedication and hard work of everyone involved.

One of the standout aspects of this production was that our players performed all the music live on stage, with some even learning their instruments specifically for this show. Lewis Diggins and Holly Brice delivered outstanding performances in the lead roles, showcasing their talents on guitar and piano, respectively. Producer Cathal Prendergast’s guidance was instrumental in bringing this vision to life.

The NODA review praised the performance, noting the exceptional singing, acting, and movement by the cast. It was a delight to see such a heartfelt and engaging performance, and we are proud to have been part of this wonderful production.

Thank you to all who attended and supported the Palgrave Players. We look forward to bringing more amazing productions to the stage in the future!