NEXT week the curtain rises on Staveley Amateur Operatic Society’s annual show.

One of Cumbria’s finest purveyors of Gilbert and Sullivan operattas, SAOS certainly knows how to put on a show - and this year’s The Sorcerer has all the expected twists and turns and lively tunes.

The magical, two-act comic opera runs from Wednesday, September 17 to Saturday, September 20 (7.30pm) at Staveley Village Hall.

Meanwhile, as part of its 60th year celebrations SAOS is looking for former members for the society to share memories, photographs and memorabilia.

“It is hoped to produce a book about the society’s history over the past 60 years,” explains Angela Dixon, society chairman, and member since 1988.

“If you have been a member of the society or have seen our productions we would love to hear from you.”

Among the society’s esteemed ranks is Andrew Taylor, a member of the society for almost 50 years. As a young boy Andrew lived in the village hall with his parents, Nora and Bob, who were the caretakers. His wife Pat acts as prompt for the shows and assists with many aspects of front of house and fundraising events such as coffee mornings.

Joan Dixon Cooper, another long standing SAOS member, has performed in many shows and has taken principal roles. Joan is vice-chairman of the society and a valued member of the front of house team.

Angela says the society is keen to attract a new generation of members: “We want to encourage younger members to come along with their parents,” adds Angela.

“I joined Halifax G&S with my father John for a production of The Mikado when I was 14 and have sang G&S ever since singing both in the chorus and principal roles.

“I joined Staveley as a way of making new friends. I love the fun element of Gilbert and Sullivan and the challenge of singing and performing both as a chorus member and in singing principal parts."

The seeds of the society were sown on November 10, 1953, at the first rehearsal of The Mikado at Staveley Village Hall.

Soon after, SOS was formed by a group of enthusiastic music lovers under the leadership of musical director Jimmy Coupland. The society has put on a show every year since then except for 1964 when it was decided to cancel the forthcoming production of Miss Hook of Holland when the producer resigned due to lack of enthusiasm and poor attendance.

Since, the society has only produced Gilbert and Sullivan operettas.

The guys and gals of SAOS are a friendly bunch, encouraging family groups to join both in a singing and back stage capacity.

Current producer, David Towers and musical director, David Tattersall support younger members to develop their singing and acting ambitions by giving them opportunities to take on principal parts alongside some of the society's more seasoned members.

Tickets on 01539-821844.