The Staveley Amateur Operatic Society (SOAS) is celebrating 70 years of bringing theatre to the local community next month.

Performances of Gilbert and Sullivan's 'Iolanthe' will run from Wednesday, September 11 to Saturday, September 14 to add another chapter to the group's storied past.

The first Staveley production in 1954The first Staveley production in 1954 (Image: Submitted)

In 1953, a group of local enthusiastic music lovers formed with the idea taking hold that they produce the Gilbert and Sullivan operetta 'The Mikado'.

In October the year after, performers greeted the Staveley Village Hall for the first time and was well received by locals, prompting the society to put on 'The Gondoliers' in 1955.

The 1980 performance of 'Patience'The 1980 performance of 'Patience' (Image: Submitted)

Thus, the Staveley Amateur Operatic Society was fully formed and, since then, it has put on a show every year, except in 1964 and during the Covid pandemic.

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Jo Worton, one of the producers of their latest production, said: "To date, over 500 people have appeared on the stage with many more helping out behind the scenes and some of our current members have been with the society for many years, performing in numerous shows.

"Our current membership ranges from ages eight to over 80 and all have a wonderful time, learning from each other."

SAOS pictured in 1993 during a show of Utopia, LimitedSAOS pictured in 1993 during a show of Utopia, Limited (Image: Submitted)

The society is still reaching new heights after all these years - being named as the best Gilbert and Sullivan production for NODA District 11 last year for their Pirates of Penzance show.

Jo added: "SAOS has gone from strength to strength since coming back from the awful period that was Covid with numbers increasing all the time and new members swelling our ranks, bringing new ideas and forging new friendships.

"We will always welcome new members if you would like to come and join us, either on stage or behind the scenes."

Last year's production earned the society a highly coveted awardLast year's production earned the society a highly coveted award (Image: Submitted)

You can still get your tickets for Iolanthe by visiting the website here or calling 01539 732537.