Splott Operatic About Us

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Splott History

On 9th February 1954, a group of Splott businessmen called a public meeting and put forward the idea of forming an Operatic Society to further the "Arts" in the area.  The Society was formed and temporarily named 'The Splott & District Amateur Operatic Society'.  It was received enthusiastically by the Splott
community, but a few obstacles had to be overcome before a 'Show' could be presented.  These were lack of finance, lack of suitable rehearsal rooms etc.

Due to the enthusiasm and efforts of Messrs. HAROLD BEESE, Producer, a local Chemist, ALEX DAVEY, Musical Director, Organist and Choirmaster at Splott Baptist Church, CLAUDE BAKER, President, a local Businessman, JACK CARAVIAS, Chairman, a local Fish Fryer, NOEL JENKINS, Treasurer, a local Bank Manager, JACK DYER, Secretary, and others .... that was the beginning ... and in May 1955 the Society staged its first production 'THE GEISHA' at the old St. Iltyd School Hall in Courtenay Road.

During the past fifty years we have staged a wide range of Operettas and Musical Comedies, entertaining audiences, some of whom have remained faithful supporters and patrons of the Society.  In 1978 we successfully ventured into traditional Pantomime, written and directed by MR. TOM LLEWELLYN.  This has introduced new generations to the world of live theatre and has enabled our younger members to gain valuable stage experience.

Because of the difficulties in obtaining suitable premises in Splott, the Society was forced to perform outside the area for some years, but since 1991 has made its home at East Moors Community Centre for rehearsals, and performances are now routinely given at St Teilo’s High School.

In 2007 we were joined by Wayne Vincent as Producer and Director. Wayne was initially taught by Tom Llewellyn and re-joined the Society after a break of almost 30 years.  Recent productions have explored less well known shows such as Kander and Ebb's "Curtains", Howard Goodhall's Girlfriends (both Welsh Amateur Premiere's )  and the irreverent off Broadway show Nunsense. As a recent favourable show review put it, the Society  is "acquiring a reputation for finding and staging little known, or obscure, musicals". In this fashion our next show is a little know musical play called "All For Your Delight" by Roger Parsley which promises to be great fun and a great evening's entertainment.

 Past Performances