THE scenery, costumes, paint and all the paraphernalia associated with the CODS production of "Love from a Stranger" was cleared away on Sunday, October 29, after several months of rehearsals and a busy show week.

Even as this was being put away in the store, plans were well advanced for the activities of the coming week.

Monday, October, 30 saw the first pantomime rehearsal and Wednesday, November 1, the inaugural rehearsal for the Easter 2018 musical "Witchfinder".

Tomorrow, Saturday, November 5, sees two Vocal Workshops with Nikki Mae, and there was even a management committee meeting squeezed in, proving to be just another busy week for the Society.

As just hinted, the rumours are true, CODS will be presenting a pantomime.

"Snow White and the Six and a half Dwarves" is a new venture for the CODS.

"A Christmas Panto", written by one of the newer members of the Society, will be an evening of entertainment for all the family running from December 20 to 23, and it promises to be a lot of fun and lighthearted banter for the festive season.

This will take place in the Old Town Hall and there is a strong rumour that Santa will be there as well.

THE inaugural rehearsal for the musical "Witchfinder" by Martin Roche and Ian Crabtree, took place on November 1 and while it hasn’t been in the West End, on a national tour or on the television, it promises to be a stunning show.

A combination of powerful story and beautiful music is guaranteed to inspire and churn emotions.

Set in 1612, the reign of James the First of England, this is a story of treachery and betrayal, of prejudice and power. It is also a story of love, truth and hope taking audiences back to the trials of the Witches of Pendle, a very dubious period in history.

CODS is delighted to have the same team in place as it had for "Made in Dagenham", namely Emily Killeen directing the show, with Allan Fouracre as musical director.

If you would like to join CODS and be in a musical this would be a very good place to start. There are a lot of characters to portray and some of the most exhilarating chorus numbers to sing. CODS rehearse at the Old Town Hall.

Tomorrow, Saturday, November 4, there are two Vocal Workshops. These are two hour sessions. Start times are 10am or 1pm and all are welcome to attend. There is even a buffet lunch in between.

Leading the sessions will be Nikki Mae, a professional stage performer with West End and National Tour experience. She works with large groups and individuals on singing techniques and improving stage performance and confidence.

For non CODS members the fee is £15 for the session (16 to 18 year-olds, £5).

If those who attend decide to join CODS, the fee will be offset against membership for the year.

The sessions will take place at QE Upper School Drama Hall.

Alan Quick