Becoming involved
We are always glad to welcome new members both on and off stage. Below, we have tried to answer a few common queries and concerns.
“I’M NOT REALLY SURE IF IT’S FOR ME”
Why not come to a few of our rehearsals? It costs nothing to come and see. You’ll be made very welcome and we won’t pressure you to join until you’re sure.
“IT’S A BIT NERVE-WRACKING JUST TURNING UP WHEN YOU DON’T KNOW ANYONE”
Of course it is, we’ve all had to do it, but we are a very friendly society and we’ll do our best to make you feel at home – call our secretary to let us know you’re coming and we’ll look out for you. If you like, you can bring a friend along for moral support even if they are not interested in joining. Rehearsals can be great fun!
“BUT I CAN’T SING SOLOS!”
You don’t have to be an amazing singer! We do audition new members - all you have to do is sing in tune. We have members with a wide range of abilities. Why not come along to a rehearsal and see for yourself?
The musicals we present need lots of people and you might start by keeping a low profile at the back of the chorus, but you’ll be surprised how quickly you gain experience and confidence.
“WHAT WILL IT COST?”
We ask for an annual subscription of £60 for adult members; this is your membership fee, which you can pay in instalments if you wish. This covers rehearsal fees and insurance. If you wish to perform, you will also have to pay a small fee for your costumes. Costs are reduced for children. When we perform in concerts, we also ask for a small donation towards music costs.
“I’D LIKE TO JOIN BUT I DON’T WANT TO GO ON STAGE”
There are plenty of other ways to get involved. We always need help back stage – with scenery, props, make-up etc. In the theatre, during the week of the show, we need help with merchandise, programme and raffle ticket sales and much more. We also have a social committee who look after us with refreshments at rehearsals as well as organising social events.
“HOW DO I GET TO REHEARSALS?”
We currently rehearse at Blackwood Miners' Institute.
“WHERE DO YOU PERFORM?”
We stage our main shows in the same place as we rehearse.
We also stage concerts, which consists of different songs and dances from various musicals. These are in various locations.
“HOW MUCH TIME WILL IT TAKE?”
We rehearse on Thursday evenings for most of the year. We sometimes have a couple of weeks off in the summer and a break at Christmas. As we get close to a production, we hold additional rehearsals on Tuesdays and some other evenings. If you don’t want to perform, you can just come along and help out either at rehearsals or during the week of the show.
You will be very busy, of course, during the week we perform but it’s only in the evening and most people still go to work during the day.