THANKS to an invitation from one of Crediton’s sons, who is heavily involved in London’s West End Theatre scene, a big day out for CODS is planned for August 12 when nearly 50 members and Friends head off to the London Coliseum, home of the English National Opera, to see a matinée of the stunning new musical, Bat out of Hell.

Our “son of Crediton” is Julian Stoneman who has had much success in his close involvement in productions such as Mamma Mia, Billy Elliot, Jersey Boys and many others.

He is currently the General Manager of this fantastic production, which is getting rave reviews from critics and fans.

Julian has always been set on a theatrical career since his early years in primary school, through QE and on to Bristol, Guildford, Stratford and the West End.

A lifetime honorary Friend of CODS, he has not only invited us to see the show but also secured us stalls seats at an incredible price to enjoy this production.

What’s it about? Well, it’s a rock opera with all the great Jim Steinman/“Meatloaf” songs, telling a futuristic George Orwell meets Mad Max sort of story, which has shades of Romeo and Juliet and Peter Pan woven into it.

Bat out of Hell, Dead Ringer for Love, Two out of Three Ain’t Bad, I would do Anything for Love and many others, all the great songs are there in this story.

Fantastic performances from a young cast, modern choreography, loads of brilliant music, a fantastic setting with amazing staging that you can only see on a big London stage.

We can’t wait to get on the bus and rock up to town.

Would you like to join us? There are just a couple of spaces left if anyone would like to come with us.

At just £65 per person, including coach fare and stalls seats for the show, it’s a great day out. If you are interested and would like further details, please email: [email protected] .

Please remember to include you telephone number.

CODS members are busily preparing for their famous September Concerts at the Boniface Centre. This year the theme is “Heaven and Earth” and tickets are already selling fast.

Also in preparation is the October play Love from a Stranger written by Frank Vosper and based on a tense psychological thriller of a story by Agatha Christie.

This year work is also ongoing for a December Panto Snow White and the Six and a Half Dwarves. More information on these events soon.

But in true CODS fashion, there is always time for some fun.

Thanks to Julian we will soon be strutting our stuff, getting on our Harley’s and rocking up at London’s West End.

Bring it on!

Mike Palmer