Belvoir Players Amateur Dramatic Society was formed in 1968 in answer to a perceived need for some cultural and artistic outlet in the new housing estate that had recently been built in Belvoir Park. The residents of this "new community" had arrived from various parts of Belfast and from other areas of the Province. A sense of identity was being created for people from diverse backgrounds and the performances of the players provided a social as well as a cultural and entertainment focus.

With several performances per year the reputation and the expertise of the group grew and developed. Soon the Belvoir Players were proving popular with audiences throughout the extensive drama festival circuit that was, and still is, a significant part of the amateur theatre life in Northern Ireland. Summer Theatre in Portrush and Enniskillen together with many performances undertaken in remote parts of the Province enhanced this reputation and acknowledged pursuit of excellence.

Membership of the group became much more widespread and the policy of encouraging association from people of all traditions, religions and cultures became the mainstay of group development. This diversity enriched the work and support for the voluntary efforts was suitably encouraged by successfully attracting audiences wherever we performed.

Success in Drama Festivals spread our reputation beyond these shores. In 1983 we were invited to perform in the British All-Winners Finals in Newport, Gwent. In 1986 and again in 1994 we had the honour of representing Northern Ireland in the British One-Act Finals, on both occasions in Scotland, where again many friends were made.

Current membership is drawn from all sections of the community and from all areas of counties Down and Antrim as well as from all parts of Belfast. Our production, in 1993/94, of Joseph Tomelty's popular Radio Play "The McCooeys" attracted record breaking audiences at over 50 performances verifying our slogan as Ulster's Most Active Amateur Theatre Group.

In July 1998 we were invited to participate in the British All Winners Festival (One Act Section) in the Isle of Man. Once again many friends were made among the diverse representatives of amateur theatre from throughout the British Isles. What a wonderful place the Isle of Man is and how hospitable the Manx Drama Federation are as hosts.

We are eagerly looking forward to the New Millennium. Our New Rehearsal Studio, for which the building work has just started, is due for completion in April and we have been invited to FLORIDA to perform a hilarious Ulster Farce by Sam Cree "WIDOWS' PARADISE" in the Lake Worth Theater there. More news elsewhere!!!