A brief history of Blackburn Gilbert & Sullivan Society - and an invitation!

 
In 1963, Bert Hyde – a well-known local stage amateur, issued an invitation through the local paper to Gilbert & Sullivan enthusiasts to join at the YMCA in Blackburn for a singalong “and please bring any scores you may have”.
 
Some 15 people turned up and after a few weeks of impromptu singing they decided to put on a show!  They formed a Committee and chose to do The Gondoliers.  Ruth Prest was the producer and Mr Andrews was the conductor.
 
The Society had no money so did some fund raising.  One method was selling football tickets, through which we found our first Secretary, Connie Kay.  She remained with us for many years.  (We’re not sure exactly what the football connection was!)
 
The Gondoliers was given in February 1964 at the Community Theatre in Troy Street, Blackburn to great acclaim.  We have put on a show every year since then.   Our main focus is Gilbert & Sullivan but we do the occasional musical as well. 
 
These days we perform at the Blackburn Empire Theatre in Aqueduct Road – see the map on Our Next Show page.  See that page and the rest of the website for more details.
 
We generally meet to rehearse weekly, using rehearsal space at the Theatre.   Rehearsals can increase as the show date gets nearer.  They start in the Autumn to learn the music, followed by floorwork.  The show is normally staged in the Spring.  Just occasionally we do a second show in the Summer.  And we do concerts from time to time.
 
For the rest of the year we have social events like a darts evening or a quiz, a meal out or a day trip.
 
Before the rehearsals we normally have a DVD night showing a version of the coming show to familiarise people with it.  This is an informal social event with food.
 
We are always delighted to welcome new members of any age – they are the lifeblood of amateur groups.  So let’s hear from you!  We are well known as a friendly, welcoming society.
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