This year Thurrock Operatic Society (TOPS) celebrates its Fiftieth Anniversary; an unbroken accomplishment of 54 musical shows since 1960.
It has always been the ethos of the Society to produce for you, the people of Thurrock, quality amateur performances of operas, operettas, musicals and other works, and to encourage the appreciation of all forms of music.
The Society has come a long way since it was founed in South Ockendon by Anthony Jose (the Society's President) and a group of parents, who together formed the All Saints Amateur Dramatic Society (later renamed the Thurrock Operatic Society). Mr Jose became the combined Musical Director and Producer, holding that position for some 34 years.
Having initially produced our shows at All Saints Church, Courts School and the Civic Hall, TOPS was the first amateur theatrical company to perform at the newly opened Thameside Theatre in 1971. Since then we have presented almost 40 full productions over a wide scope of musical genres and produced a considerable number of concerts in aid of charitable organisations. These include St. Luke's Hospice, the Society's adopted charity, for whom we have so far raised over £6,000.
TOPS FIFTIETH ANNIVERSARY DINNER DANCE
To celebrate this year's half-century a Dinner/Dance has been arranged to take place in the Monks Barn Restaurant at Ye Old Plough in Bulphan. Tony Jose, the founder of the Society, together with his wife Mary, will be our guests of honour.
This event takes place on Saturday 18 June, and you are reminded to hand in your reservation slip with a deposit of £15.00 per person by Thursday 18 February.
THE CHICAGO MIKADO REHEARSALS
Download the latest version of the Rehearsal Schedule for the Chicago Mikado here
LATEST NEWSLETTER
Read the most recent edition of the TOPS Newsletter here
TOPS WINS NATIONAL AWARD
In 2008 TOPS was highly delighted to receive from NODA East... read more