The Committee is charged with the responsibility of driving the group to achieve a high standard of performance. Whilst we may be ‘Amateur’, we must perform as a ‘Professional’ outfit. This includes planning, advertising and promotion, securing sponsors and ensuring the group has a long term future. We hold monthly meetings and do all we can so that our members have a safe, fun and happy environment to perform as wide a variety of plays as possible. In addition we have regular newsletters and fun activities.
Chairperson & Treasurer
Rob Kemp
Rob began his 'Amateur' career in acting in 1998.His first role was that of 'Brazencourt' the inn keeper in the EODS production of Lock up your Daughters.
Having also appeared in Merchant of Venice, he took a slight change of direction and began making amateur films, mostly with his good friend Shaun Troke.You can find some of Robs 'exploits' on You Tube (The Commuter & Store Wars to name but two). In 2005 he joined the Norway Players and the following year was elected Chairman. He also donned an amusing dress and wig to portray an Ugle Sister in Cinderella! His directorial debut began with 'Good Witch Bad Witch'. Rob wrote and directed his own play a year later; Isis & Oliver. When the group was dissolved, he worked with the committee to form the Uptown Players, an exciting new group based at the Hampden Park Community Centre in Eastbourne. He continues to enjoy acting and recently directed An Inspector Calls.
Rob's has played 'Scrooge' in A Christmas Carol.
Rob recently donned a dress to play the Duchess in Alice in Wonderland is currently Directing the panto; Cindy Rella, which he also penned.
Vice Chairperson/Secretary
Paula Herbert
Paula is a registered nurse at Eastbourne Hospital, she has 3 children, 1 of whom has a severe disability and she is involved in her local charity; GI Blues.
She became involved in drama when her 2 daughters got parts in Snow White. Since then she has become a committee member for Uptown Players and has a great passion for the group to be a great success. She wrote & directed the Uptown Players premier performance of Peter Rabbit.
Her next acting role is Mrs Fezziwig in A Christmas Carol.
Paula directed a sell out successful Alice in Wonderland, which was performed in June 2009.
She is now Co-Directing Cindy Rella with Rob
Group Representative
Grace Herbert
Young Persons Group Rep
Sam Jenner
Technical Representative
Tom Ekroth Smith
Hall Rep
Ann Jackson