Bawds was founded in 1981 in Cambridge, initially to present productions of restoration plays. However, after a few years it was decided to broaden the theatrical scope of the company by presenting a wider variety of pieces. As a result of this decision, Bawds has since staged many plays by modern authors. The company has used many different types of venues for its productions, ranging from college gardens and studio spaces to traditional proscenium arch theatres.

Now well-established as a leading Cambridge amateur dramatic production company we present three major productions a year and one or two festival productions, some of which have been toured as far as The Edinburgh Fringe Festival.

There is no formal membership. The company, which is a registered charity, is administered by an elected committee; current officers and committee members for 2008 are: Rosemary Eason (Chairman), Andy Waller (Treasurer), Colin Lawrence (Secretary) - Neil Coates, Lyn Chatterton, Brenda Cottis and Sally Marsh.