Whitstable is very fortunate in having its own theatre, The Playhouse, which is owned and managed by The Lindley Players Limited.

The Lindley Players, first formed in 1946 by Ralph Lindley, performed in local church halls until eventually - in 1980 - they purchased the then United Reformed Church. A lot of hard work by the members over the next year converted the church into a theatre seating 186. Various areas were later extended to give more rehearsal room, a scenery dock, a costume store and a workshop. Technical developments in all of the main areas continue as an ongoing project, the most recent being the computerization of the Box Office.

In 1999 the Players applied for a Lottery Grant, raising the £100,000 as their contribution towards the work. Unfortunately the application was not successful, all remaining Lottery monies having been diverted to the development of 'The Dome'.

When Robert Brett & Sons donated £50,000, the Bar - now known as 'Bretts' - was refurbished, and in 2000 the Lindley Players also refurbished the entire auditorium seating at a cost of over £23,000.

The Playhouse is also hired to many local drama groups and also to the well known Deborah Capon School of Dance.

The Lindley Players are renowned for their drama productions, pantomimes (queues forming from the night before the tickets go on sale) and Music Halls - these not only staged at The Playhouse but also at The Marlowe Theatre, Canterbury, and the Central Conference Centre Theatre, London.

The Lindley Players are always looking for new members, not only actors/actresses but members for back stage, lighting, makeup, costumes, bar staff and box office to list just a view of the activities. Members receive a monthly Newsletter, priority booking and can become involved in all of the activities of the Society including the many social events. A coffee morning is held at the Theatre every Saturday between 10:30 and 12:00 noon. If you would like to become a member please write to The Membership Secretary, The Playhouse, 104 High Street, Whitstable, CT5 1AZ, come and see us on any Saturday morning, or visit the site Mailing List page.

For Theatre hire details please contact Caroline Jordan - 01227 274549