History of Swanage Drama Company
Swanage Drama Company started up in 1999 under the banner of 'Pumpkin Productions' performing the classical loved tale of 'Cinderella'. From the success of the show, 'Pumpkin Productions' became Knollsea Theatre Company in 2000; taking the name Knollsea from the name that Thomas Hardye gave to Swanage in his books. At the end of 2011, Knollsea transitioned again into what we now know as Swanage Drama Company, or SDC for short!
Swanage Drama Company traditionally put on 2 shows a year; our classic pantomime in the January, and then a show in the middle of the year (these tend to be a farce or a comedy). Around October/November time we try and put on a fundraising show for charity and get our company and guests to put on an evening of entertainment. Over the years we have raised over £30,000 for charity and this is due to the generosity and support of those who come along to our shows. So thank you!
Our shows are performed at The Mowlem Theatre; www.themowlem.com. Please help us to ensure that the lights stay on at The Mowlem Theatre for future generations and shows to come.
Swanage Drama Company are registered under NODA - The National Operatic and Dramatic Association
Awards
2024 - Cinderella - NODA nomination for 'Best Small Pantomime' - District 11
2023 - Robin Hood and the Babes in the Wood - NODA nomination for 'Best Small Pantomime' - District 11
2019 - Vicar of Dibley Christmas - The Second Coming - NODA nomination for 'The Show Must Go On Award' - District 11
2012 - Funny Money - NODA winner for 'District Achievement Award' - District 11
In the News
The Panto Pat Award
In 2020, we lost a valued founder member of our company which was a sad time for us all and so in memory of Pat Jones we decided each year to award a trophy called “The Rising Star “ trophy. This is for our younger members to recognise their hard work and dedication and talent within our company. Hopefully this award each year will inspire our youngsters.
Previous winners
2021 - H.G
2022 - A.A
2023 - A.M
2024 - L.N
What have our audience's been saying?!
"This time of year just wouldn't be the same without the Swanage panto"
Jack and the Beanstalk 2025
"What a great production, funny, visually impressive and a great cast. You should all be very very proud"
Jack and the Beanstalk 2025
"Fantastic show last night, best thing I've seen for a long time, laughed from start to finish"
Cash on Delivery 2024
"It was so brilliant. My jaw is aching from laughing and smiling so much! It was hilarious - I don't know how you all managed to keep such straight faces!! A wonderful night out!! Thank you so much everyone, you are so talented"
Cash on Delivery 2024
"You were all fantastic! Well done to everyone! Can't wait to see your next pantomime!"
Cinderella 2024
"What a fantastic night, we are so lucky to have such great talent in Swanage of all ages. The Mowlem and Swanage Drama Company well done"
Cinderella 2024