We are always looking for new performing members and
behind-the-scenes helpers (backstage, administration, front of house
etc). All performers on stage must be members of the Society, but if
you'd like to help out with any other aspect of a production you are
welcome to get involved as informally as you like.
Full membership of Maidenhead Operatic Society costs only £25 per year, with an additional variable subscription for performing in a show (typically £30 - £40).
This is a very friendly society, with lots of social events, from visits to professional shows to BBQs and our legendary after-show parties.
If you're interested in joining us, either on stage or behind the scenes, please contact us .
We have various levels of membership:
It gives full voting rights at the AGM with an annual subscription
of £25. Whether you perform or not
your name appears in the programme.
Entitled to one free, top priority booked ticket for each of the two annual shows - minimum donation of £45 a year - name appears in show programme and you will receive newsletters etc.
Will receive newsletters and social event updates - minimum donation of £5 a year, early ticket booking on cast night.
Putting large scale musical theatrical works on to the stage is
expensive. Our costs include hire of: rehearsal hall, performance
venue,
costumes, scenery, props, lighting equipment and sound equipment; fees
for lighting and sound design and operation, orchestra and accompanist;
performing rights; insurances; and other sundry production
expenses. Typically the costs fall
between £8,000 and £15,000 for a single production lasting
one week.
These costs are largely met from ticket and programme sales, but the shortfall (and the Society's administration costs) must be covered by members' subscriptions and other fundraising.
Cast members are expected to provide their own footwear, accessories
and make-up (obtainable through the Society) , but show subscriptions
include costuming and wigs.
There is a full programme of social events around the calendar, some
purely social,
others that serve to raise money for the Society's productions as well.
In the summer we have a barbecue (sometimes preceded by a treasure hunt). We enjoy a variety of other events which have included: Skittles evenings, Ferret Racing, Barn Dances and trips to local and West End Shows. All new ideas (especially when accompanied by offers to help in the organisation!) are welcome.
A newsletter is produced at least twice a year to keep Members, Patrons and Friends up to date with planned events .
Anyone wishing to join the Society as a performing member will be given a private audition, usually at the end of a rehearsal evening, by the Musical Director, Chairman and, if present, the Director. The qualifications for performing membership are an ability to sing in tune and an enthusiasm about performing on stage. Members are not required to read music, although it helps!
All members who have maintained their acting membership (i.e. have
taken part in at least one of the Society's four most recent main
shows) are not required to audition again for membership of the Society.
Principal parts in each show are awarded by competitive audition at a date, time and place fixed with adequate notice by the Committee. Auditions are open to all. To apply for a part, you must complete a form setting out appropriate personal information; a note of any prior engagements that conflict with rehearsals; and details of other theatrical commitments. Principal auditions take place in front of the Audition Panel and any members of the Society who wish to attend.
The Audition Panel comprises the show's Director; Musical Director;
the
Chairman of the Society; and one other independent person appointed by
the
Committee. The Society's policy is to secure the best possible cast of
principals
for each show - there is no requirement for anyone taking a principal
role
to have performed in a show previously with the Society and there is
strictly no preference given to current or former members.