The history of Kington and District Operatic Society

Jack and Marion Dawson were both “G&S” enthusiasts who, whilst living in Presteigne had founded a “G&S” Society in the town. When they arrived in Kington it was their great wish to introduce “G&S” into Kington society.

Marion was a member of Kington W.I. and Conductor/Director of the W.I. Ladies’ Choir. During 1967 she decided to make her wish come true. Her aim was to produce HMS Pinafore during the autumn of that year. The ladies’ chorus presented no problem – her choir members were much in favour of the idea. But, men were needed and Marion approached various of her musical male acquaintances – who were also “G&S” enthusiasts – with invitations – “not to be refused” – to a meeting. They came in some numbers!

In no time Marion had found her male chorus along with lady and gentlemen principals. Rehearsals were planned and late October was chosen as a suitable time for the production to be staged. Scores and scripts were ordered; work began amid great enthusiasm and enjoyment – under the expert direction of Marion and Lorna Hughes as joint Producers, and Patrick Shannon (Vicar of Kington) as Musical Director/Accompanist. By early October the stage was set!

It was a highly successful production. Audiences were large – the Company – and indeed the townspeople – had enjoyed the whole experience. And so, Kington Gilbert and Sullivan Society had been established with thoughts now being directed towards the 1968 production. The President was the Rev. J. C. Harding; Chairman – Dr J. R. Birkett and Harold Backhouse as Vice- Chairman.

The Pirates of Penzance was chosen to be the 1968 production. The choice was much approved by the members and rehearsals were to begin in the early summer. During 1968 it was decided to rename the Society – it would now be known as “Kington and District Operatic Society”. This would enable the Society to perform shows other than “G&S” operas – such as The Merry Widow (1971), Maid of the Mountains (1972), Die Fledermaus (1974) and Merrie England (1975) – and, of course, pantomimes – beginning with Cinderella (1985).

KADOS has enjoyed a highly successful record. After forty five years it is still in good heart; its productions are of a consistently high standard; it provides a great deal of enjoyment for both members and audiences and it continues to attract new members – vital for the future success of the Society.

The headline in the Mid- Wales Journal – after the 40th Anniversary celebrations read “40 years of quality theatre celebrated”. Quality indeed and under the skilful and watchful eye of the Chairman and the Society’s dynamic producer Lynne Owens, the “wind is set fair” for at least another 40 years!

John Morgans