Join Us

Auditions

There is no overall audition to join the Club, rather every member has to audition for each show. There is no requirement to “serve an apprenticeship” in the chorus prior to auditioning for principal roles.

The audition pieces are set by the production team and consist of music and dialogue from the current show (there is no dialogue for chorus).

Principal auditions are held on one day only to ensure that all audition under the same conditions. Those wishing to audition for principal roles but who are unable to attend the set audition date should sign up on the “Audition List” clearly stating that they are unable to attend the set audition date. This information will be passed on to the Audition Committee and should they decide not to cast the part from those members seen at principal audition (and knowing that others wish to be considered) will then be able to call a later audition for the part.

Chorus auditions are usually heard in vocal pairs, i.e. soprano with alto, tenor with bass. Those wishing to audition for chorus who are unable to attend the set audition date may arrange with the Chairman to audition at an earlier rehearsal.

There are no auditions for the Concerts for members who have taken part in previous productions.

Social

In addition to the music programme, the Club also enjoys an active social calendar.

We pride ourselves on being a happy and friendly Club. If you decide to come along we can promise you lots of fun, friendship, and hard work, and the reward of music and production of a very high standard.

Production Dates/Venues

The main Production takes place in October or early November each year and is staged at The Harlequin Theatre, Redhill - normally running for six performances including one Saturday matinee. In recent years, we have also performed semi-staged Concerts in March or April, at the Harlequin or at Reigate Park Church.

Rehearsals

The first rehearsal of each season is a “Production Talk and Sing Through” when everyone is able to familiarise themselves with the plot and music before formal rehearsals begin. We rehearse on Mondays or Wednesdays (initially for Principals, later full cast) and Thursdays (full cast) with an occasional Sunday rehearsal nearer the show.

Most rehearsals are held at Micklefield School, Somers Road, Reigate or the Redhill URC, Shaws Corner - a rehearsal schedule is issued for each show with dates and locations (see Show pages).

We expect a high commitment to attend rehearsals - attendance records are kept and if excessive absence occurs the Club reserves the right to withdraw members from the cast in extreme cases.

Contact Us

If you would like further information regarding membership of The Opera Club then please contact:

Joseph Murphy (Membership Secretary)

Subscriptions

Subscriptions for acting members must be paid prior to auditions. Whilst we aim to include as many as possible in the cast, those who are not fortunate to be included may reclaim the acting part of their subscription from the Treasurer. We are always keen to welcome non-acting members who may wish to offer equally valuable help backstage or front of house, as well as attending our social functions.

Subscription Rates

*For the first year only of Acting Membership, new members will be allowed a 50% discount on the appropriate acting membership