A local institution since 1952, its fair to say many a Hawkesbury resident either knows someone who was or still is attached to Richmond Players.
Since its inception, the group, which stages its productions at Richmond School of Arts, has offered locals the chance to sample an annual season of live theatre, featuring talents drawn from the region.
To celebrate its rich history, a book is being produced, complete with cast lists, photographs and extracts from programs and newspapers, dating back to the start.
Titled, The Richmond Players Story in Five Acts, the 328-page book has been compiled as a labour of love since September 2018 by a group of Richmond Players members and folk from the Kurrajong-Comleroy Historical Society, led by its president David Griffiths.
The team traveled far and wide across Australia to obtain material from contributors.
"The book captures the pictorial history of Richmond Players, as well as recounting some really interesting stories that we gathered from a multitude of people who contributed to the book," said Mr Griffiths.
"I'm grateful to everyone who so generously provided contributions for the book, but in particular I'd like to recognise Dorothy Phipps, Margaret Thorne, Jeanette Hatch, Margaret Rozzoli, and Harry and Margaret Terry. It would not have been possible without their collections."
Pre-orders are being taken for the book. The first print run should be available in September. There is also hopes that a physical book launch will be organised to coincide with the release.
"I feel like I have got to know so many people just by researching them and I am looking forward to meeting many of them at the book launch," Mr Griffiths said.
To pro-order your copy of The Richmond Players A Story in Five Acts, visit richmondplayers.com.au/OurStory