Welcome to Ottery Community Theatre
Ottery Community Theatre is a not-for-profit, local amateur theatre group dedicated to entertaining the community of Ottery St Mary since 1985. Join us in our mission to entertain and inspire!
Our Story
Established in 1985, Ottery Community Theatre was formed by a group of locals to promote the performing arts and to encourage community involvement. In 2025 we celebrate 40 years of performances in Ottery St Mary.
From modest beginnings, we've grown through unwavering dedication and a commitment from our members to always ensure 'the show must go on!' and that all involved, from cast and crew to audience members, have fun.
What Do We Do?
All of OCT’s productions have been (and continue to be) rehearsed and performed without a permanent stage; rehearsals are held in a variety of places including living rooms, church halls and the Institute. It is only a matter of days before the first performance that the cast can practice on the actual stage, as a hardworking team swiftly construct our "theatre" at the Institute. The crew work miracles every year and before our last audiences are tucked up in bed, our theatre is packed away again... until the next show!
Our Performances
We strive to showcase original work with our shows written and directed by our members. Every year we put on a winter pantomime, full of much needed-post-Christmas laughs, and in the summer we put on a selection of one-act plays.
Who Can Get Involved?
We are an inclusive society and everyone is welcome - you can expect a supportive environment and plenty of fun. No experience is necessary - we always encourage new members.
There are many roles including Acting, Sound and Lighting, Live Band, Back Stage Crew, Painting, Prop Design, Makeup, Costumes, Front of House, Chaperones and more!
You are also welcome to join our committee to help steer the group in its quest to entertain.
We are Members of NODA
The National Operatic and Dramatic Association (NODA), established in 1899, stands as the UK’s foremost organisation supporting and championing amateur theatre. With a mission to ensure amateur theatre thrives, NODA promotes sustainability, skill development, and inclusive participation across all levels of performance and production.
NODA was founded “to protect and advance the interests of operatic and dramatic art, and of societies engaged therein.” Today, the organisation proudly supports over 2,000 society members and more than 1,000 individual enthusiasts who bring to life a wide array of productions—from musicals and plays to operas, concerts, and pantomimes—in venues ranging from major theatres to local village halls.
Ottery Community Theatre Company is proud to be a long-standing member of NODA. Over the years, we’ve been honoured to receive several awards in recognition of both our dedication to entertaining the community and the creative talents of our members.
We extend our sincere thanks to NODA for their ongoing support and encouragement of our work.
For more information please check out our Facebook page or email us
Click the icon to see our Facebook page
Email us at OtteryCommunityTheatre@gmail.org