A Message from the chairman

Welcome to the website for Southend on Sea Operatic and Dramatic Society, or SODS as we are affectionately known. We hope you enjoy navigating the site and can find all the information you desire. The photographs will give you a real insight into the quality of our productions.

Southend on Sea Operatic and Dramatic Society is one of the oldest societies in the country staging its first production, Robin Hood way back in 1893. Since then SODS has produced more than two hundred shows as diverse as West side Story and The Sound of Music.

The society currently produces two shows each year, one in the spring and one in November, both at the magnificent Cliffs Pavilion in Westcliff on Sea, Essex.

SODS has a motto: We take what we do seriously but never ourselves. Thus we are intent on producing top quality shows as near to a professional standard as possible whilst enjoying ourselves in the process. Our reviews bear testament to the quality of our productions and our welcoming, friendly ethos enables members to enjoy performing as a hobby.

Staging shows, especially at such a large venue is a time consuming and costly pursuit, but the society is fortunate in having a team of hard working members who work tirelessly in the background. Without our management committee and backstage and front of house teams we would not be able to function and produce such highly acclaimed shows. SODS has always, in the past had a male Chairman. I have the dubious pleasure of being the first female to be voted in to this position!

If you are a regular patron we would like to take this opportunity of thanking you for your continued support. If you have never seen a SODS show, take the plunge and come along and see us. We would also welcome your feedback. Seek me out in the bar after the show or talk to one of our front of house team and we will give you a SODS welcome!

Warmest wishes

Annette McGibbon

Chairman of SODS