Billericay Operatic Society (BOS)
First established in 1929, Billericay Operatic Society (B.O.S.) has continued through thick and thin with, apart from a break between 1939 and 1947, at least one production each year. Whether it be a concert, cabaret or a full scale blockbuster musical, the enthusiasm and professionalism of the cast has continued to be of the highest quality. Initially, B.O.S. performed Gilbert and Sullivan operettas exclusively, broadening their horizons as time went on with such classics as The Merry Widow, My Fair Lady and The King and I.
More recent productions have included popular favourites Hello Dolly, Wizard of Oz and Sweet Charity with the thought provoking and moving Oh! What a lovely War earning B.O.S. a “Best Chorus” award from NODA (National Operatic and Dramatic Association) in 2005.
Having performed at various locations in Billericay in early years, including the Mayflower and Archer Halls and even Mayflower School, B.O.S. has more recently performed at the Civic Theatres in Chelmsford and is now moving to the Brentwood Theatre which has long been a friend of B.O.S.
The Society presented its first production, Gilbert and Sullivan’s “The Mikado”, at the Mayflower Hall in Chapel Street, Billericay in April 1929. Eighty years later, they are celebrating their Anniversary by presenting “Hot Mikado”, a modern adaptation of the same show. Featuring jazz, swing, gospel and blues versions of the original songs, Messrs Gilbert & Sullivan would probably heartily approve! Well known songs such as “Three Little Maids”, “A Wand’ring Minstrel, I” and “Tit-Willow” are all given a modern twist.
Hot Mikado will be at the Brentwood Theatre from Tuesday 17th March - Saturday 21st March.
Tickets are available from the Brentwood Theatre Box office, Tel: 01277 200305. Prices are £13 and £11 for concessions (only available Tuesday and Wednesday)
Amongst the enthusiastic and talented company, there are a number of members who have been with B.O.S. for a number of years, including, from left to right, Gill McGarry, Wayne Carpenter, Gail Carpenter, who have been friends since their school days.
Hot Mikado
Book & lyrics
adapted by DAVID H. BELL.
Music adapted & arranged by ROB BOWMAN.
Based on “The Mikado” by W.S.Gilbert and Arthur Sullivan.
Originally produced at Ford’s Theatre, Washington D.C., Frankie Hewitt,
Producing Director.
These amateur performances are given by arrangement with Josef Weinberger Ltd.
B.O.S.
Officers:
Chairman - Adrian Rilstone
Vice Chair - Jane Martin
Hon. Secretary - Lynn Brame
Hon. Treasurer - Barbara Woolnough
Committee members: Brian Plumb, Ian Rainsby