Birley Carr Opera

Gilbert & Sullivan Productions.

A  Gilbert & Sullivan operetta is staged by the society in March of each year.  

Naturally, all of the popular G&S shows have been presented many times in the last 60 years.  However, occasional forays have been made into less popular productions, such as 'The Zoo', but essentially the society needs to raise funds to support future productions and the Church of which it is part.

Whilst some members of the society are members of the church, there is no requirement to be so as the society devotes itself entirely to theatrical pursuits.  Many members have also been involved with the many other G&S societies that once thrived in Sheffield but are now, sadly, only a memory.  Although the society was formed in 1947, there are still founding members who remain active in the society. 

Rehearsals take place in the church hall every Thursday at 7-45 pm between mid October and March for the operetta production with additional rehearsals on Monday evenings.

In March 2005, the society presented 'The Mikado'.  This is one of the most popular G&S shows and was a delight to present.  It was well received by our patrons and played to several full houses.  'Ruddigore' was presented in March 2006 and and 'Pirates of Penzance' in 2007, both being very well received.  Our presentation of HMS Pinafore' in 2008 ran to 'full houses' and the standard of the production was praised in the local press. 

Next Operetta Production

The society will vote for the production to be presented in March 2009  will be Iolanthe.  Please see the current production page of this website for more details..   We would welcome any new members who may wish to join us with a view to appearing in the production.  Rehearsals will commence in mid October every Thursday evening at 7-45 pm. 

Producer.

Following successful productions of 'Pirates' and 'HMS Pinafore', the production of Iolanthe will be again in the capable hands of Steven Andrews.   Steve's is a vastly experienced thespian having played many principal roles for Birley Carr as well as Greasbrough AOS, South Yorkshire Opera, Trent Bluecoat Opera and many other societies.  We look forward to the new ideas and innovations that he  brings to productions. 

Musical Director.

Jonathan Hester, who holds an Honours degree in music and comes from a family containing several talented musicians, is musical director for the society.  Jonathan  follows in his father's footsteps in being MD.  He has been a member of the society for around 25 years and MD for the last 10 years. In his professional life, he teaches music at a school in Doncaster.

Whilst front-stage for operetta productions, Jonathan is an accomplished actor who has taken principal roles in many of the society play productions.