ABOUT QUARRY BANK MUSICAL THEATRE SOCIETY
Dr Kate Rogers, Dudley Councillor, upon completion of the new Quarry Bank Community Centre, approached Mr Edgar Cartwright, who had been accompanist for the original Cradley Forge Amateur Operatic and Dramatic Society which disbanded in 1957, with a view to a new Society being formed to perform shows and revues at the new Community Centre. Edgar Cartwright approached members of the original Cradley Forge Amateur and Dramatic Society a the Quarry Bank Community Centre Amateur Operatic and Dramatic Society was formed. Their first production was 'Midsummer Madness', a revue staged in June of 1962, followed by 'A Grand Night for Singing' in November. These initial revues were a huge success and under the then Chairman, Mr Brian Genner, the society venue to Netherton Arts Centre where it staged 'Oklahoma' in September 1963. In December 1963, the society changed its name to the Quarry Bank Amateur Operatic Society. Up to 1975, when Edgar Cartwright served as the Societies first Musical Director, a Hammond Organ was hired each year as accompaniment to the fully staged Musical shows. This was followed in 1976 where a full theatre orchestra was hired for the Societies production of 'Camelot'. One of the aims of the society when it was formed in 1962 was to donate funds raised from annual productions and revues to local charities. Over the years, we have been fortunate enough to be able to donate to many local charities. In 2013 members made the bold decision to support some significant changes to the running of the society by voting in a new constitution, whilst renaming to Quarry Bank Musical Theatre Society. It has always been our mission to promote performing arts locally and put on well-known and impressive shows – shows that, sometimes, most local groups may find too tough a challenge. In 2017 we wanted to further reach out to the local area by forming our Youth Society, who get to perform shows that are well-known in London’s West End. Our performances of Sweeney Todd and Phantom of the Opera both won awards for Best Youth Group in NODA District 8 and the Challenge Cup presented by Birmingham District Theatre Guild. Check out their page at Bank Muscial Theatre Society Youth. Our 2023 show will be The Addams Family Musical frpm 6-10th June at Brierley Hill Civic Hall. Ticket booking is now open at www.seaty.co.uk/adamsfam or by calling 07742 803221.
