IN last week’s article in the “Crediton Courier” I talked about the increase in the number of younger members who had joined CODS since the Covid pandemic. 

Last year’s production of “The Sound of Music” obviously gave a dozen children the chance to shine as the Von Trapp family and in this year’s production of “The Children of Eden” some have returned to be joined by more new to the group.

This show does not use the children as soloists in a similar way but they are all integral components of the story.

Some will have a cameo solo role, some will have some singing to do, some will be animals and Erin Zorlu portrays the dove.

What can this star of the future not do? Erin seems to be a top gymnast, is an excellent dancer, is making great strides in her Shakespearean journey and will use her dancing talent to reassure the cast in “Children of Eden” that dry land has appeared once more on the Earth.

Erin has also just landed the lead role in QE’s next production to be performed by members of the Lower School. It is great for a Society like CODS to be joined by youngsters who enjoy musical theatre but not only did Erin join but she brought her whole family.

Last year Dad could be seen helping construct the set, a job which takes so much time and relies on the skills of such people. Mum came to help with the chaperoning and this year has taken the relevant courses to be able to front our chaperone team.

Little brother, Okan, didn’t fancy staying at home so he’s playing one of the younger brothers and appearing on stage with CODS for the first time. What a family! You know them, then come and see them!

“Children of Eden” is being performed at QE Barnfield from Tuesday, April 11 to Saturday, April 15 with performances starting at 7.30pm.

Tickets are priced at £15 for adults, £12.50 for concessions and £10 for Under 16s.

They are available by either clicking on the Box Office link at: www.codsonline.com or by emailing me direct on: [email protected] .

This is a show full of wonderful tunes that you will not want to miss. It is interesting to note that the show is not often performed because of the difficult nature of the score for the singers, but many who are experts in the field of musical theatre have often cited “The Children of Eden” as one of their favourite musicals.

Mike Canning