AS Studley Operatic Society celebrates its centenary, Ellen Branagh looks back at 100 years of one of the town's longest-running musical groups...

STUDLEY Operatic Society's roots lie in the Studley Choral Society, whose first meeting was held on November 11, 1903.

The group's first production in 1904 was the choral work Cantata St Cecilia's Day, followed in 1905 by Rose Maiden, and principal singers including former Redditch Indicator editor Harry Guise. But in 1906, after musical director Mr T Appleby Matthews threatened he would quit if the society did not produce in costume, members presented - in costume - Birch's The Merry Men of Sherwood Forest.

On August 26, 1907, a proposal to change the group's name to Studley Amateur Operatic Society was passed and became affiliated to the National Amateur and Dramatic Society (NADS) at a cost of one guinea.

Gilbert & Sullivan took pride of place over many years for the society and a highlight in its history was the 1923 outdoor performance of Yeoman of the Guard at Coughton Court.

The society grew in strength and, after a short quiet period, was resurrected in 1948 by Coughton farmer and district councillor Len Parkes, who organised and produced shows for many years afterwards.

Studley Operatic Society boasted several well-known presidents and affiliates. One president was Lady Throckmorton, of Coughton Court, who also invited many of her titled friends to become vice presidents, including former Prime Minister Sir Anthony Eden.

But disaster struck in 1961, when Len Parkes died after a short illness, leaving the society like "a ship without a rudder."

But members vowed to continue, and formed a committee to carry on making music for residents in and around the town.

During its century of existence the society has produced all the best known and loved operettas - most more than once - including The Mikado, Iolanthe and Gypsy Princess.

President Joe Brennan said the group had had plenty of highs and lows, including being banned from performing Showboat at the Palace Theatre due to a disagreement over actors "blacking up".

They also won National Operatic and Dramatic Association's Number 10 Region award for Best Show in 2004 for The Scarlet Pimpernel (pictured below).

Mr Brennan said: "So now hopefully we look forward to another 100 years. Many, many wonderful people have made enormous contributions to the longevity of Studley Operatic Society.

"We have been blessed with dedicated presidents, chairmen, secretaries, treasurers, producers, musical directors, choreographers, stage managers, crews and wardrobe.

"As expected, many are no longer with us to celebrate this very special year, but to those who will be carrying the torch in the future the society says: "Thank you and bless you all!"

A CENTENARY Ascot Ball was held at the Town Hall in January and 10 members were presented with awards for a combined service of 295 years. The society presents its centenary production, My Fair Lady, at the refurbished Palace Theatre from May 9-13. The show itself is celebrating its 50th anniversary. Tickets are available on 892594.