About Leigh Operatic and Dramatic Society

The West Leigh Operatic & Dramatic Society was formed in 1915 as a result of a concert party organised during the first World War. The Society expanded and in 1917 became known as Leigh Operatic & Dramatic Society. Within 2 years the Society's success increased the membership and made it necessary to move from the original Clarke's College in London Road to more commodious premises at Elm Hall.

Over the second World War the Society had to scale down its productions but continued on by regularly giving first-rate revue type entertainment to the troops around the county.

Ours is a record of which we feel justly proud. We have presented shows ranging from grand opera to the avant-garde (including 3 world premieres) as well as countless entertainments for charitable organisations. Today LODS continues this tradition, always ready to take a risk in order to offer something, something exciting, but above all something entertaining. We have a lot of new and exciting shows coming up, so we look forward to seeing you there!

Join us

All members are subject to an audition (normally held twice a year) which includes three disciplines, singing, dancing and acting. We unfortunately do not take everyone who auditions, but our auditions are not scary, and if, for whatever reason, you are not successful this time, we'll tell you what we are looking for, for the next.

We rehearse on Monday and Thursday evenings, and then around 5 weeks prior to the show, we rehearse on Sunday afternoons as well. We like members who are committed, and you are expected at these rehearsals every Monday and Thursday, unless otherwise noted.

What to expect at rehearsals

We start at 8pm sharp and work hard while we are there, we love what we do and our efforts go into producing the most professional show we can. At 9pm we break for a quick tea and catch up with friends. At 10pm, we finish and normally when the nights are getting lighter, we'll head to the pub, adjacent to our rehearsal venue (handy!).

Fees

Our membership fees are £75 per year, which can be split and paid into two instalments over the year. If you are taking part in a show, you are expected to pay £25 to cover additional fees invested in you for that show.

Backstage Crew

If performing isn't your thing don't be put off! We need enthusiastic, helpful and willing stage crew to ensure that our shows are as professional as you see in the west end. You get to be an important part of our production team as well as come to all the fun stuff. Plus it's a great way in if you're a budding director, stage manager, set designer or you're just interested in the inner workings of putting on a fantastic show at the theatre! Sound like you? Get in touch by emailing us below.

For more information, please get in contact.

Louise Brown

Membership Secretary

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