User:Stevelloyd/Thurrock Operatic Society (TOPS)

Thurrock Operatice Society (TOPS)

Thurrock Operatice Society (TOPS), is an amature dramatic society, based in Grays, Essex in the [United Kingdom].

According to their constitution, the objectives of the society are:- a) To present quality amateur performances of operas, operettas, musicals and other works. b) To encourage the appreciation of all forms of music. c) To educate the public in the dramatic and operatic arts, and d) To develop public appreciation and taste in the said arts.

History
The Society was orringally formed in South Ockendon and the moving force of its creations was a local teenager and a group of parents, who together, formed the All Saints Amateur Dramatic Society (after the local church to which they all belonged). The teenager, Anthony (Tony) Jose, became the combined Musical Director and Producer, holding that position for some 34 years.

In 1960, with assistance from parents and Clergy, the newly formed group successfully presented their first show - The Little Sweep - followed by The Pirates of Penzance in 1962 and The Mikado in 1963. Each show was rehearsed and performed in the then yet to be consecrated church.

In September 1964, the flourishing Society transferred its productions from the church to nearby Courts School. The improved facilities included a larger a well-lit stage, dressing rooms, a rehearsal area and space for larger audiences. These encouraged the company to embark on well-costumed productions. The added luxury of a sizeable orchestra enabled them to tackle more ambitious productions such as Orpheus in the Underworld and Die Fledermaus.

In 1971 the company transferred its productions to the newly opened Thameside Theatre in Grays. At the same time the group changed its name to the Thurrock Operatic Society, now affectionately known as TOPS.

Since then TOPS has presented 43 full productions including some at the Civic Hall. Looking at the previous productions section of this site will show the range and scope of TOPS productions to date. TOPS has also produced a considerable number of concerts and regularly performs for charitable organisations, including St. Luke's Hospice, the Society's adopted charity.