The Woodford Operatic and Dramatic Society (WOADS) was formed in 1924 with the first production - 'The Woooden Bowl'.
Currently, the society has approximately 100 members, being a mixture of members whose preference is to perform in plays, and those who prefer the musical productions and pantomimes.
The performance venues have varied during the history, although the present format is for the plays and musical shows taking place at the Kenneth More Theatre in Ilford and the pantomime at the Sir James Hawkey Hall in Woodford Green. Both locations are within the London Borough of Redbridge and maps can be found in the Calendar section of this site.
In each season, there are normally three plays, one or two operetta/musicals or sometimes a concert, all at the Kenneth More Theatre, Ilford and a pantomime at the Sir James Hawkey Hall, Woodford Green.
Have a look at the Archive section of our site to get an idea of the shows that we perform.
Usually on Tuesday and Thursday evenings in the Woodford area, plus some Sunday afternoons/evenings nearer the show dates.
Normally there are four for each dramatic productions, six for operatic productions, 12 for the pantomime and one or two for the concert.
| Acting: | Mainly performers or would be performers. |
| Non Acting: | Vital workers in supporting the shows backstage, programme selling etc. |
| Associate: | Mainly prepaid members of the audiences whilst welcome to help in other places. |
For the larger shows, many costumes are hired, whilst self supply is encouraged. WOADS has some in-store scenery, but most scenery is hired.
| Plays: |
Fit up: On the Monday prior to first performance Take down: After last performance (same day) |
| Musicals: |
Fit up: On the Sunday prior to first performance Take down: After last performance (same day) |
| Pantomime: |
Fit up: On several days before the show opens Take down: The Saturday evening and Sunday following the last performance. |
Hopefully, all members join in performing, prompting, tea-making, working back stage and stage managing. Props, stage hand, lighting, sound and painting, programme selling and stewarding are all also vital roles within the society. And of course, all members need to help sell tickets!
The general committee and three management committees (one each for drama, musical and pantomime). Each committee normal meets once a month to discuss issues arising through the year.
For more info see the 'Who's Who' section of this site.
Selection of plays/musicals/pantomimes, choosing the producers, cast and support teams, booking the theatre/hall and rehearsal rooms, printing, costumes, props etc., how to promote the productions. Holding membership auditions, accepting new members and collecting subs. Periodic play readings and social/fund-raising events.
'WOADS News' is published and sent to all members about six times a year. You can always contact anyone in WOADS via e-mail and phone.
See the 'Who's Who' section of this site for contact info to find out more.
Ever needed, particularly by attending and selling tickets for all the shows. Already existing is the 'Friends of WOADS 100 club'.
The society does not have any form of personal accident or effects insurance either at the rehearsal or performance venues.
Our year is from 1st June in each year to the following 31st May.
The AGM is usually held during July. This is when our committees are elected and annual reports from drama, operatic and pantomime are submitted to members.
| Acting Membership: | £40 |
| Non-Acting Membership: | £20 |
| Associate: | Inclusive of all ticket allowance and dependant upon category - £37.50 / £38.50 / £58.50 |
| Productions: | Acting members in a prodution pay a participation fee. Acting performers pay for their scripts either diretly, or as part of the participation fee. |
'History of WOADS', published in 1998 is available for £6. Please contact our Honarary Secretary for more details.
Have a look at the Archive section of our site to see shows that we have performed.
Please see the 'Who's Who' section of our site.
If you are interesting in joining WOADS please complete the form in the Join WOADS section of the site.