Thurrock Operatic Society, or TOPS as the association is more affectionately known, has been performing musicals in Grays for over 50 years now and is one of the leading amateur dramatic groups in the Thurrock area.
We are a very friendly and welcoming Society. Our aim is to provide light entertainment with an annual production at the Thameside Theatre where our shows have been performed every year since its doors opened in 1971. This annual production takes place in March, with rehearsals running from September the previous year. We rehearse once a week, on a Thursday evening from 7.30pm in the United Reformed Church annexe, Bradleigh Avenue, Grays. Additional rehearsals will also be included as we progress towrds the show (please see the relevant Rehearsal Schedule).
We always warmly welcome new members to perform with us. Equally, if you would like to join us but feel that your place isn't on-stage, we often look for help backstage with sound and lighting equipment, props, costumes, make-up or even front-of-house with the sale of programmes. You don't have to be an aspiring actor to join TOPS, any skill or aptitude would be welcomed into the Society.
If you have used the TOPS website before you will notice a new Members only area, which can be accessed by clicking the ‘Member Login’ tab located at the top of every page. The panel will expand down and if you click ‘login’ you will be taken to a separate page where you can enter your username and password. This section of the site has been reserved for Society Members and will contain the latest newsletters, rehearsal schedules and downloadable show music, so there will be no excuses from now on not to learn your words!
Bringing you more in 2012 with our production of Oliver!
Following a sensational near sell-out run of performances in March with our hit production of Oklahoma! we return to the Thameside Theatre next year with one of the most beloved British musicals. OLIVER! vividly brings to life Dickens' timeless characters with its ever-popular story of the boy who asked for more.
The sensational score, a masterpiece by the renowned musical and song composer, Lionel Bart, features an array of irresistible songs including "Food Glorious Food", "Consider Yourself", "You've Got to Pick-a-Pocket or Two", "I'd Do Anything", "Oom Pah Pah" and many others. Joins us and we guarantee you'll be asking for MORE!
Tickets are available to buy now so avoid the rush and book yours today through our Box Office. Remember that any bookings made before 31 December receive a 10% discount. Groups of 10+ also automatically receive 10% off.
Congratulations to fellow TOPS member Rebecca Huish
For those associated with our 2011 production of Oklahoma! we are delighted to announce that our leading lady Rebecca Huish has won the Best Young Performer award from NODA. Rebecca is currently studying Performing Arts at university and of course, if you have been part of our recent casts or have seen our last few shows you will remember her for her roles in Fiddler on the Roof and The Chicago Mikado. Our congratulations go to her.
COSTUME COLLECTION Costumes will be available to collect, and if required, you can try them on and have them checked over by Ann. At this point, Ann will check your footwear and accessories too.
BAND CALL This will take place at the rehearsal hall in Bradleigh Avenue and is to be attended by all those who are playing principal roles. Following this Band Call there will be a full run through with the entire cast.
GET-IN AND FINAL DRESS REHEARSAL AT THE THEATRE The get-in starts at 10am and if you are available to help then further details will be issued to you nearer the time. All cast members must attend the final Dress Rehearsal which will take place in the evening and detailed instructions will be advised in due course.
Oliver! runs at the Thameside Theatre for 5 evening performances plus a Saturday matinee.