Guildburys were founded in 1963 by an energetic group of (then) 20 somethings who were searching for theatrical fun. Over the years we have performed predominantly in Surrey, but have been seen as far north as the Edinburgh fringe, and as far west as the very tip of the U.K. at the Minack Theatre in West Cornwall.

The name derived from an amalgam of two locations – that of the Surrey village of Albury where the society originated and first toured its productions, and the county town of Guildford

The original Guildbury bus, affectionately known as 'The Jug'

For the first four years the company mainly produced musicals, touring them around local villages and small towns using an old double decker bus for transport that became a local celebrity in its own right, attracting much attention wherever it went. 1967 saw us venture to Cornwall to tour a production of Paint your Wagon. Holidaymakers on local beaches were treated to impromptu performances as the enthusiastic touring cast and crew distributed flyers to publicise the show.  Many of those original members are still part of the company; a testament to the health and longevity of Guildurys and also to their own !

We continued to tour productions in Surrey and 1979 saw us return to Cornwall, this time to perform at the Minack theatre.

Guildburys at The Minack theatre, 1979

Touring eventually gave way in 1977 to a more permanent performance venue – initially at The Rhoda McGaw theatre in Woking and latterly in Guildford at The Electric theatre.

1990 saw the annual summer show performed for the first time open air at Farnham Castle – the start of a long and happy association with the castle which continues to this day. ‘Guildburys at the castle’  is a highlight for everyone, company and loyal audiences alike. Guildburys Theatre Company continues to go from strength to strength with a membership of over 100, who range in age from teenagers to octogenarians.

Spring and Autumn shows are performed at The Electric theatre, Guildford.

We pride ourselves on productions that are varied and innovative, but most importantly we produce shows that are enjoyable as well as challenging. They all share the high production values of which we are so proud.

Over the years Guildburys have performed more than 140 different shows and given in excess of 800 performances.

Our Farnham Castle shows alone have been seen by more than 25,000 people.

Love's Labour's Lost at Farnham Castle 2004

In 2013 we have been invited to perform again at the renowned Minack Theatre. As our 50th birthday approaches we will celebrate with pride, and look forward to the next 50 years. Never has our mission statement of Performance with Passion been more apt.

Guildburys dressed to party !!