GAOS set to Blitz it with new production

ONE of the town’s most renowned and long-lasting theatre groups are just days away from kicking off their latest production.
By The Newsroom
Published 8th Sep 2011, 11:30 BST

Gainsborough Amateur Operatic Society’s rehearsals for Blitz have been going swimmingly and they’re all set for taking the show onto the big stage at Trinity Arts.

Most people will have heard the song Mums and Dads, and many will remember Far Away sung by Shirley Bassey or The Day After Tomorrow with Vera Lynn. Or what about Who’s This Geezer Hitler?’ Not many will know that they all come from the same musical – Blitz! written by the composer of Oliver, Lionel Bart.

Vicky Toward from the local amateur dramatic group said that GAOS have taken on a real challenge in producing two shows this year.

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“Cast members are now being put through their paces by professional director Greg Snape, musical Director Gerry Mooney and choreographer Brent Grantham-Rae,” she said. “25 local children have been recruited and take on roles in the show alongside an adult cast of 30.”

Speaking of the storyline behind the play, Vicky said: “Blitz, set in 1940, centres on the matriarchal Mrs Blitztein, played by Liz Roberts, and her large family, especially her petty-criminal son Harry, played by Alan Trevor, and her daughter Carol, played by Sarah Norvock, who falls in love with Georgie Locke, being played by Adam Saunby) the son of Alfred Locke, portrayed by Ashley Wingham.”

“Of course there is a feud going on between Mrs Blitztein and Alfie Locke which makes matters more interesting!”

She continued: “The characters deal with many situations, some humorous, some tragic, and eventually find their own individual peace against the background of war. For his inspiration, Bart drew on his own experiences of living in London during the Second World War and paints a vivid picture of what life was like living with the relentless German bombing raids.”

Vicky added: “The cast and crew have put their heart and soul into this, so I hope to see many Gainsborough residents there enjoying it.”

Blitz! will be performed at Trinity Arts Centre from 13th - 17th September, evening shows from 7.30pm, Saturday matinee from 2.30pm. Tickets can be purchased by calling 01427 676655.

You can also book online by visiting www.trinityarts.co.uk.