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Lunchtime Speaker-Brian Higgs

November 25, 2024 @ 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm

A welcoming and sociable NODA award winning musical theatre company based in Woking. WAOS Musical Theatre (formerly Woking Amateur Operatic Society), established in the 1920s, faced closure in the 1930s due to the lack of a venue but was revived in 1972. Shortly after, the Rhoda McGaw Theatre was completed in 1975, becoming the primary stage for WAOS productions, with two shows annually—one in spring and one in autumn. The group’s repertoire spans from Gilbert and Sullivan operas like The Mikado to modern musicals such as Legally Blonde and Into the Woods, and even Mozart’s The Magic Flute. Upcoming productions include Evita in December 2024, Anything Goes in May 2025, and The Wizard of Oz in autumn 2025.

WAOS boasts an extensive collection of scenery and costumes accumulated over decades. Performers, mainly adults but occasionally children, pay fees for participation and auditions. When children perform, their schedules are limited to ensure they only appear two days out of a four-day production. Behind the scenes, a large team handles technical aspects like scenery, lighting, costumes, publicity, and direction.

Productions are costly; Evita, for example, will cost approximately £23,000, requiring at least 70% occupancy to break even. While some shows, like Sunshine on Leith—boosted by The Proclaimers’ support—achieved sell-outs, others have incurred losses. Profits, when made, are reinvested into future performances, ensuring the organization remains sustainable. Despite financial challenges, WAOS has earned acclaim, including a NODA award for an adult production of Bugsy Malone.

WAOS thrives on community spirit and artistic dedication. Participants are motivated not by financial gain but by passion for theatre. The society’s continuity depends on volunteers, audience support, and careful budgeting. By fostering a tradition of inclusive, high-quality performances, WAOS contributes to the cultural fabric of its community. Its adaptability, as seen in its varied repertoire, ensures it appeals to diverse audiences and sustains interest in musical theatre. The group’s enduring success underscores the power of community collaboration and commitment to the arts.

Details

Date:
November 25, 2024
Time:
1:00 pm - 2:30 pm

Venue

Hoebridge Golf Club
Old Woking Road, Old Woking
Woking, GU22 8JH
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Phone
01483722611
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