75 Years of Song and Spirit: Stewartby Operatic Society celebrates milestone anniversary
Stewartby Amateur Operatic & Dramatic Society is thrilled to announce its 75th anniversary: a celebration of bringing musical performances to the heart of our community for three-quarters of a century.
Since our founding in 1951, we’ve been proud to make opera accessible, inclusive and deeply personal for audiences and performers alike. From our earliest performances as Stewartby School Operatic Society to our current award-winning productions still held at Stewartby Village Hall, we’ve remained committed to nurturing local talent, fostering creativity and enriching lives through the power of music and storytelling.
To mark this special milestone, we’re performing an exciting double-bill of Gilbert & Sullivan’s ‘Trial By Jury’ & ‘HMS Pinafore’, designed to celebrate our past, present, and future. Performances will take place from Wednesday 18th – Saturday 21st November 2026, at 7:30pm Wednesday to Friday, and 2:30pm on Saturday, at Stewartby Village Hall, and will showcase over forty-five local performers and musicians.
In a fitting tribute for our anniversary year, ‘Trial By Jury’ will be performed by an invited cast of former members of the society, celebrating our rich decades of musical heritage.
Witness the drama unfold as the broken-hearted Angelina sues her fiancé for breach of promise of marriage. The chaotic and humorous trial leaves the changeable Jury divided. Can they decide between the charming yet fickle Defendant and the utterly captivating Plaintiff?
‘HMS Pinafore’ meanwhile, is a classic tale of duty versus desire; and love across class boundaries. Merging the traditional and the contemporary, this unique performance features hand puppet characters, all whilst retaining Sullivan’s sparkling music & Gilbert’s well-loved story.
Join us for this special anniversary double-bill, full of unforgettable characters, a huge dose of community spirit, and songs you’ll be humming all the way home!
“To mark this special anniversary, we wanted to combine a celebration of the past, with fresh and new ideas for the ever-changing landscape of community theatre” said Tim Sell, artistic director. “Casting became much more accessible with the concept of puppets for ‘HMS Pinafore’; it allows a wide range of actors to portray the characters without the need to fit the stereotypical look – the puppet covers that! Likewise, removing the usual barriers to performing has enabled many more members to be involved on stage for ‘Trial By Jury’.”
Tim continues: “It’s a different world since the society started 75 years ago, and we’re proud that the dream is still alive and flourishing. This production is a celebration of our shared love for music, storytelling and community - and an invitation to everyone to join us for the next 75 years!”
Tickets can be booked online at: https://www.ticketsource.com/stewartby-amateur-operatic-and-dramatic-society or by contacting our box office at 07557 670703 or [email protected]
For 75 years, Stewartby Operatic Society has been more than just an operatic company - we’ve been a hub for connection, creativity and cultural pride. Highlights of our journey include:
Over 500 performances in shows & concerts performed for and by our community, including well-known Gilbert & Sullivan operettas, like ‘The Pirates of Penzance’ and ‘The Mikado’
Hundreds of local artists - from amateur singers to professional musicians - who have graced our stage or contributed behind the scenes.
Regional NODA Awards for productions, including local soprano Elizabeth Bottone awarded Best Musical Director for last years’ production of Franz Lehár’s ‘The Merry Widow’
Thousands raised for local charities and churches through regular fundraising concerts
“Stewartby Operatic has been my life” says Pam Massey (née Juffs), our longest-standing member, who joined the society in 1955 and still organises fundraising events. “It’s where I met my husband, Ray, who played many leading roles in the early days as a school student. I worked at the Stewartby Brickworks for 24 years, so this community has been so significant for me. It’s amazing to think the society’s still going strong after all these years.”
The London Brick Company - at one time the largest brickworks in the world - had its headquarters in Stewartby, Bedfordshire, which is why the model village exists in the first place; the community celebrates its Centenary this year.
Celebrate With Us!
We invite everyone to be part of our 75th-anniversary celebrations:
Attend an Event: Join us for our upcoming production of ‘Trial By Jury & HMS Pinafore’, 18th – 21st November 2026 at Stewartby Village Hall, MK43 9LU. Keep up to date with all our current & future activities at www.saods.org.uk
Share Your Story: Did you perform with us? Attend a show as a child? Help build a set? We’d love to hear from you! Email [email protected] or post your memories with #SAODSat75.
Support Our Future: As a not-for-profit organisation, we rely on donations and volunteers to keep opera alive in our community. Sponsor an event, volunteer your time, or become a Friend of the Society; more information at www.saods.org.uk
Spread the Word: Follow us on Facebook at @StewartbyOperaticSociety for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and ways to get involved.
About Stewartby Operatic Society
Stewartby Operatic Society is a local operatic company dedicated to making opera a vibrant part of local life. Affiliated to the National Operatic & Dramatic Association (NODA); we have been regularly recognised locally and nationally in awards and nominations for our productions.
“Being part of Stewartby Amateur Operatic and Dramatic Society over the past year has been a truly rewarding experience. It has provided a wonderful opportunity to meet and connect with others who share my passion for opera, music and performing.” says teacher Evie Watts, one of our newest members. “It has reignited my love of singing, and I have particularly enjoyed learning new repertoire and choreography, as well as working collaboratively to create an entertaining and engaging show.”
We believe opera and musical theatre are for everyone, and our productions - ranging from full-scale theatre shows to intimate concerts & fundraising events - reflect the diversity, creativity and spirit of our community. Whether you’re a lifelong opera lover or a first-time attendee, we’d love to welcome you to our stage.