Tunbridge Wells Operatic Society (TWODS) are just putting the finishing touches to 42nd Street  which will run at the Assembly Hall from 24th to 28th April 2012.

It’s been quite a journey.  Auditions took place back in December 2011 and the cast have been rehearsing since January.  That’s a long time!!  This show is full of song and dance so extra rehearsals have been needed, too.  All this goes to ensure a truly wonderful night at the theatre – TWODS never fails to please and this show will be no exception.

Marketing for TWODS is always a challenge – especially in these difficult financial times – so in an effort to get good press coverage we had a super photo shoot at The Royal Wells a few weeks ago…

Just a little taste of what’s to come.

TWODS is one of the oldest dramatic societies in the country having been formed in 1889! That’s the same year as the Eiffel Tower was built – so a good long time.  We have always had a strong membership and never more so than at present – with over 200 members and patrons.

Our current formula is to produce high quality family entertainment in a local setting.  We have very high standards and a reputation to maintain which means we are always working hard to ensure our audience get the show they expect and deserve.  Yet we manage to keep our prices at a relatively low level.  Some might say that our productions are up to West End standards, but our prices definitely aren’t – current ticket prices start at just £11.00.

The production team for this show – Alison Cripps (Director), David Grubb (Musical Director) and Bertie Witt (Choreographer) is second to none and between them have worked on many successful production in recent years.  I am sure they will agree that this show has been a challenge in rehearsal terms.  This show does not really have a chorus – principals and dancers only, which has meant splitting time between the three disciplines of drama, music and dance has been difficult.  However, it all comes together in the end and they have yet another marvellous show on their hands.  Well done!

Another of our aims is to support local charity and community projects. In the past few years we have donated in  excess of £25,000 to local good causes such as Pickering Cancer Drop In Centre, Hospice in the Weald, Kent Air Ambulance – to name but a few.  In addition  to donating a large proportion of our profits to charity and we also donate tickets and have a ‘bucket collection’ at the end of each performance.  Our chosen charity for 42nd Street is SANDS (Stillbirth & Neo-natal charity).  To learn more about their good works go to www.uk-sands.org

If you are interested in joining TWODS please see our website www.twods.org
We have new members auditions twice a year.  Or if you would prefer to support us in a non-acting capacity how about becoming a Friend Of TWODS?  Full details can be found on our webpage.

- Lauraine Griffiths of TWODS