Cheltenham Operatic and Dramatic Society

About Us

CODS is the oldest amateur dramatic society in Gloucestershire, and one of oldest in the country. We've been performing musical theatre productions and plays, at both the Everyman and Playhouse theatres in Cheltenham since 1890.

CODS is the oldest amateur dramatic society in Gloucestershire, and one of oldest in the country.

We've been performing musical theatre productions and plays, at both the Everyman and Playhouse theatres in Cheltenham since 1890. There are typically three productions each year, with a winter play (usually at the end of January) followed by summer (May/June) and autumn (September/October) musicals.

Over its long years of existence, CODS has staged many productions, too numerous to mention here, but in recent times we have performed such diverse shows as ‘Sister Act‘, ‘Guys and Dolls‘, ‘The 39 Steps‘, ‘Legally Blonde‘, ‘Calendar Girls‘, ‘Little Shop of Horrors‘, ‘Disney’s Beauty and the Beast‘, ‘Avenue Q’, ‘The Full Monty’, ‘Annie‘, ‘Blackadder Goes Forth‘, ‘Sweeney Todd‘, 'Evita' and 'Shrek'. Upcoming productions will include ‘School of Rock’, ‘Little Women’ and ‘Kinky Boots’.

We also run the thriving Cheltenham Community Choir. The choir meet weekly, and perform two main concerts a year (in June and December) in the wonderfully picturesque Holy Apostle's Church, alongside a number of other smaller engagements, like the recent appearance at the Winchcombe Festival of Music and Arts. They regularly showcase a range of songs from the musicals to highly appreciative audiences.

CODS is always looking for more members, whether you are interested in treading the boards, singing in the Choir or helping out behind the scenes. All of the information you require about us is located on this website so do have a look around. If you’re looking for a place to showcase your talents whilst becoming part of a flourishing community of theatre people do get in contact – we’d love to hear from you and help you get involved.

Our Committee

Over 130 Years of Stage Magic

The society was formed sometime in the early 1890's, as documented in a young, unnamed Cheltenham lady's diary.

The Operatic class she was attending, taught by a Dr Ferguson, decided to put on a production of Gilbert and Sullivan’s comic opera 'Trial by Jury' at the Assembly Rooms. Cheltenham Operatic and Dramatic Society had its stage debut at the  Assembly Rooms on May 30th 1890 with this production,  and the rest as they say, is history; but a history that mustn't stray far from our minds.  Having performed shows for nearly 130 years, CODS has a lot of stories to tell.

Overview

2024 Season

What a year it’s been! I want to start by thanking everyone who nominated me as Chair, it's been a joy, and I’m excited to stand again for a second term.

2024 was full of energy, creativity, and a few unexpected challenges. I stepped into the role halfway through rehearsals for Kinky Boots, and what a team we had! Laura, Ellie, Lily, and Cathy led a fantastic production, and the cast brought incredible spirit. Even a mid-show lighting failure couldn’t stop us, thanks to Dave Hale for saving the day!

Our CODS Choir celebrated 10 years with a stunning summer concert, and The Wedding Singer brought all the 80s vibes, despite another unexpected tech hiccup. Huge thanks to Jake for coordinating everything behind the scenes to make this show a reality.

We launched Charlie and the Chocolate Factory with an amazing team and cast, gearing up for our biggest project yet. A £14,000 high-tech set is no small feat, but we’re lucky to have such dedicated volunteers and technicians behind the scenes.

Our new website and refreshed branding are on the way - stay tuned! We’re also excited to revive our dramatic roots with Constellations, performing this July, and plans are underway for a full-society play next year.

Looking ahead: Bonnie and Clyde hits The Playhouse this Autumn, and Chitty Chitty Bang Bang will fly into The Everyman for Easter 2026!

Finally, a heartfelt thank you to the CODS committee. Your time, talent, and dedication keep this society thriving. I'm honoured to lead CODS into another exciting year.

Vickie x

Over 130 Years of Stage Magic

Noda

CODS is affiliated with the National Operatic & Dramatic Association (NODA), which was formed in 1899 by amateur societies in the North West of England for the purpose of bringing together members of amateur operatic and dramatic groups for their mutual assistance and combined benefit.

Each year the Association holds national and regional conferences, together with competitions for poster and programme design. It runs a Summer School, with courses ranging from make-up design to stage management, giving NODA members the opportunity to improve their craft. The Association also awards Long Service medals to those members who have given active and unpaid service over many years.

Today, the Association has around 2,300 affiliated societies and over 2,500 individual members throughout the UK and Northern Ireland. It is the only organisation of its kind devoted exclusively to the amateur stage, and is entirely self supporting.

For more details visit the NODA website

Noda logo