The Great Witley Operatic Society (GWOS) bears the name of the village in West Worcestershire where a few Gilbert and Sullivan enthusiasts and amateur singers gathered to entertain themselves and their community first in 1952 in the tiny village hall, but also at Abberley where the hall was larger, and Martley, before moving to the Swan in 1965.
These days Great Witley Operatic Society has a long established reputation as a friendly and welcoming society that encourages its members to develop their individual singing and acting abilities.
The Society’s annual operetta production, which is primarily but not exclusively Gilbert and Sullivan, takes place as a public performance at the Swan Theatre in Worcester each spring. These productions are well received and critically acclaimed.
There are many opportunities, other than singing and acting, for members to contribute
their skills to the many and varied tasks which are essential to the successful production
of a show. These include wardrobe, make-
Rehearsals begin in September, usually on Monday evenings at Holt Village Hall. All members are invited to audition for principal roles for each production.
In addition to the annual production, the Society gets great pleasure by performing charity concerts in the summer months to raise funds for a whole range of local charities in the County of Worcestershire and sometimes further a field.
Outings, quizzes and social functions are arranged from time to time and these give the members the opportunity to socialise in different environments.
If you think you might be interested in joining the GWOS team, why not come along to a rehearsal or contact us? We are always keen to hear from anyone, whether you wish to sing, perform or support what we do in any way. GWOS may no longer be ‘farmers in tights’ but, as 50 years ago, our principal aspiration is enjoyment, on both sides of the curtain. We look forward to seeing you!
