We are a friendly group with a place for everyone who is interested in light opera and musicals. We wlcome anyone who can sing, especially in tune! If you can't carry a tune, or don't want to appear on stage, we always welcome help with all the other things that go to make up a high quality amateur production - scenery, organisation, stagehands and all the 101 other jobs that it entails.
Our past Secretary Terry Thompson describes his personal experience of the society below:
I have appeared with most of the local societies, many times with some. I now only appear with Bourne End as I feel that the cast I work with are more important to my enjoyment of the show, than the show itself.
I find the members a welcoming and social group, not overly hung up about my lack of talent, willing to find a role for anyone, any age, and at any level, but still able to always put on an excellent show much appreciated by the audience. Rehearsals are sociable and enjoyable, everyone has a good laugh, and usually a drink at the bar in the interval. Our rehearsal pianist, Richard, is able to play all the signing notes to help you along. New members are always made welcome and introduced to everyone.
Auditions are open and encouraging, and even if your aspirations exceed your abilities they will find an appropriate part for you. There is no need to audition for the chorus, and minor speaking roles are often offered out during rehearsal. Many up and coming talents have got their first leading roles with Bourne End and gone on to bigger societies elsewhere.
Shows are efficiently organised, the theatre has a large scene dock and stocks of scenery, props and costume, so show costs can be minimised and impact maximised. There are male and female dressing rooms, and normally a party atmosphere is evident in each with chocolates, fruit and drinks (delivered from the bar). After the final performance the cast has a party in the hall, with presentations to those involved.
The Society have a number of purely social events through the year and get groups together to attend other societies social events, and shows. They also provide entertainments for others events and are always looking for performers to take part in these. We have a Carol Concert as a community event in December, with 4 rehearsals and one show which is free to the public, we also support other events at the Bourne End Centre.
If you would like further information, turn up to any rehearsal, or contact the Society by email !
Terry Thompson