Rutland Musical Theatre was founded in 1980 by a small group of people who were keen to start the first 'Musical Theatre' Society in the County, this being due both to a love of music and theatre generally and also to preserve the name of Rutland. The first show was Showboat, performed in Uppingham Theatre in April 1981 to much acclaim. Since then the Company has gone from strength to strength and is now a well respected part of the Rutland scene. The Company has become a Registered Charity (No: 513497) and performs a major musical production each year.