Like many community choirs, Matlock Gilbert & Sullivan Society is over the moon to be singing together again after the long and lonely Covid pandemic – especially as 2022 is the group’s 30th ‘birthday.’
Musical Director Melanie Gilbert (no relation to half of the famous operatic duo) explains how the choir has bounced back:
‘We sadly lost some valued members over the Covid years, but thanks to a shout-out in our wonderful local press, we’ve attracted several new singers. It’s great to be once again rehearsing a summer show – ‘Mr G & Mr S’ which we’ll perform in June.’
‘The more voices, the merrier. We’d love to have a few more gentlemen singers to round out our sound. We’re a friendly, sociable bunch. If you enjoy singing, but you’ve never tried G&S before, why not come along and try us out for a week or two - no obligation.’
Choir member Linda Hardy put the invitation in rhyme:
“We always have spaces for tenors and bases. Gentlemen, do not be shy. Nerves are quite normal, we’re very informal so come on chaps, and give us a try!”
Matlock G&S rehearse every Friday, currently at Church In The Peak on Chesterfield Road in Matlock, which is a warm, bright venue with free parking.
Anyone interested in joining the choir can call Melanie on 01246 277698 for a chat. The group also welcomes non-singing helpers, both ‘Front of House’ selling tickets or ‘Back of House’ helping with scenery, costumes, props - or tea! (ring the Society Chairman, Sue, on 01629 534929.
This June the Society will perform ‘Mr G & Mr S’ – the story of Gilbert & Sullivan, in words and music, at two local venues: Fri. 10th June at The Medway Centre, Bakewell, DE45 1DY. On Saturday 11th June at Florence Nightingale Memorial Hall, Holloway, DE4 5AR. Both at 7.30pm. Tickets £10 on the door, or can be reserved in advance (Tel. Sue on 01629 534929 or Pip on 01629 55157) Refreshments available.