FAQs Part 2

See our equal opportunities policy. Like most societies we particularly need more men to take part in productions but are pleased to see all new members.

Do you accept children and teenagers?

There are very few roles for children in Gilbert and Sullivan, so to perform in most productions you need to be able to sing and appear as an adult. This means that boys’ voices must have broken. There is no minimum age limit - we will consider each case individually - but as a guideline children under 12 or 13 will probably not be old enough. Another local group, CADOS, has a junior theatre group.

What opportunities are there for non-performing members?

Non-performing members are full members of the society and can, for example, attend rehearsals and meetings, take part in fund raising and social events, vote at the AGM and be elected to serve on the committee. However, CESP is primarily a performing society and the emphasis is on productions and concerts. The fact that we usually do only one staged production a year limits the opportunities for areas such as back stage work. Other local societies may offer more opportunities for this (see their sites on our links page). We are not really a Gilbert and Sullivan appreciation society, although if you like their works you will enjoy coming to see the shows. If you are interested in becoming a non-performing member and want to find out more contact us.

Is it very expensive to join?

Current performing membership fees work out at just over Ł6.00 per month. Good value, we think!

Does it cost a lot of money to put on a show?

Each main production costs over Ł10,000.00 to put on. We supplement income from ticket sales with local authority grants and fundraising (usually £2,000.00 per annum).

Still have questions? Want to join us? Want to become an honorary member? Then why not contact us today.