Amateur Dramatics in the UK is often ridiculed or lampooned, reputed to have lower quality than professional theatre. However, a great number of community theatres are respected establishments in their community, and the great majority of professional artists in the theatre report that they began their career in non-professional theatre.

A growing number of community theatre companies and groups now sponsor the writing, production and performance of original theatrical and dramatic work, as opposed to the usual performance of well-known musicals and plays. These original works often involve local writers with strong sense of the community in which they work and whose work touches on themes relevant to community-based audiences mirroring the work of the UK Community Theatre professional companies.

Community theatres range in size from small groups, led by single individuals performing in borrowed spaces, to large year round companies with elaborate well equipped theatres of their own. Many community theatres are successful non-profit businesses with a large active membership and, in some cases, a full time professional staff. Because the performers and other artists are also involved in other aspects of their community, non-professional theatre can develop a broad base of support and attendance among those who might not normally patronise the professional arts.

Opinions vary on how to define "amateur" in relation to theatrical practice. Technically speaking, an "amateur" is anyone who does not accept, or is not offered, money for their services. One interpretation of this is "One lacking the skill of a professional, as in an art". Another is "A person who engages in an art, science, study, or athletic activity as a pastime rather than as a profession."

Many amateurs do provide a source of entertainment for their local communities and amateur theatre can be a fun and exciting hobby, with strong bonds of friendship formed through participation in community organized theatrical events. Many of these performers reject the "hammy" or "incompetent" label and re-label themselves as Pro Am Many others reject the elitism of the professional industry entirely, and are pleased to just have fun. There are amateur actors and groups who strive for excellence, who study their craft and take their performance as seriously as any professional.

There is alot of information, links and resources available on the internet for amateur dramatic enthusiasts or groups. Here is just a selection :

• Amdram, The Amateur Theatre Network
• Arts Council
• The Stage
• National Operatic and Dramatic Association