The MAD Group began back in 1978 when the Village Hall Committee decided to put on a concert to raise some money and invited village organisations to do ten minutes each.  That was the start of what we now know as the Malborough Amateur Dramatics Group (MAD).

The first pantomime, in January 1979, was Aladdin which was locally written and a great success.  A profit of £275.00 was made.  Back in those first days, there was no proper lighting or sound equipment and the seats were all on the flat.  Most of the costumes were made from people’s old curtains!  An annual pantomime has been produced ever since apart from 2021 due to the pandemic.

How things have changed.  Gradually the shows became a bit more sophisticated with published scripts and better lighting and sound equipment.  Eventually the raised seating was bought which meant that everyone had a good view.  We now produce amateur shows of a very high standard and have had very many talented adults and youngsters who have benefited from performing with our group. 

In 2002 it was suggested that we produce a show during the summer with the under 18s and this was the birth of the MAD Kids.  These shows started off as ‘review’ style and took place in the church.  After three years we transferred to the Village Hall and have produced a summer Kids show every year since then, apart from missing 2020 and 2021 due to Covid.

Some of us have been involved with MAD for many years and our shows have become very well-known both in Malborough and the surrounding area.   We all very much enjoy our MAD Group and hope to continue for many years to come.

Jill Clarke – MAD Group Chairman