ALTHOUGH it was only three weeks ago that CODS reported that plans were moving forward to perform "Sister Act" in April the committee has now made the decision to move it to August.

The two main driving forces behind this decision were the safety of everyone and secondly the incredible response for tickets.

The safety of everyone both onstage, backstage and in our audience has been paramount to our decision making.

The recent move to spread the time between first and second vaccinations could mean that many of our audience would still feel uncertain about the protection being received and could still be cautious with venturing out.

The easing of restrictions for everyone and the continued closure of schools beyond half-term also meant that no guarantee could be given that Queen Elizabeth’s School would even be available.

CODS would publicly like to thank Liz Goodman and Rupert Poole for their continued support during these difficult times when plans are being reviewed.

Had we continued with our plans for April then many of you may have had to miss out on the possibility of seeing our show.

Unless all restrictions had been lifted it is possible CODS may have had to perform to 50 per cent audiences.

By August it is hoped that some of these restrictions may have been lifted and just like West End theatres life may allow full auditoriums again.

After our last report there was an incredible amount of interest with many readers placing orders for tickets should they become available. If you did not take advantage of the first opportunity then you are encouraged to send an email to: [email protected] where your interest will be noted.

So "Sister Act" will now be performed from Monday, August 9 until Saturday, August 14.

As so many societies have been restricted in their ability to continue rehearsing during these difficult times CODS still believes that this could still be one of the first amateur productions to reach performance since the outbreak of this pandemic.

The cast and crew are looking forward to presenting this really entertaining show to you all.

Michael Canning