Churt Amateur Dramatic Society
(CADS)
CADS (Churt Amateur Dramatic Society) provides a fun and friendly environment for those who love to act and want to build up stage experience, plus anyone looking to join a local community of friends whether on stage or behind the scenes.
We perform a variety of shows, from war-time plays to modern day pantomimes; there is very little that hasn't been portrayed on our stage. Great for families who want to both watch and participate - so come along to our next performance to see what we're all about!”
ABOUT CADS
When the village hall celebrated its Golden Jubilee in 1978 there was no drama group in Churt to call upon, consequently Grayshott Stagers were asked to perform a music hall to mark the occasion, when three Churt residents took part. Following that show, there was pressure for Churt to start its own drama group. So in May 1980, thirty three people met in the village hall anxious to start but having limited experience. What should the group be called? –Churt Amateur Dramatic Society seemed very prosaic until we realised that CADS was its acronym, but we love it!!!
The new group was led by Olivia Cotton. Training members to project their voices was always difficult so loyal supporters soon learned to book early to be near the front so they could hear. Lighting was acquired and a wardrobe was built up through the generous donations from local inhabitants. The society started with three productions a year – spring, autumn and a Christmas pantomime, several “home-written”. For a few years our local MP attended the pantomime with her children, saying that CADS’ panto was the most enjoyable. To maintain interest among members not chosen at audition, play-readings were regular events at private homes.
By the time of the Village Hall’s Diamond Jubilee in 1988 CADS was able to give backbone to a community play, “Cavalcade of Churt” which involved nearly all the village societies. That was the first occasion when all seats were fully booked before even the first performance.
Today CADS has a vastly different make-up with brilliant performances by members talented in the many aspects of theatre. Experience in a professional theatre such as playing at the Electric Theatre at Guildford and the Leatherhead and Woking Drama Festivals, where CADS compete against other groups, has enabled members to gain a professional experience and CADS have recently won a number of awards.
CADS runs a number of shows each year including the annual pantomime, a Spring and November play/s and the introduction of 'CADS Does' supper evenings to further entertain the audience. CADS is known amongst its members as being a hugely supportive, all inclusive, society.
We are always looking for new members to either tread the boards, join the committee or help backstage.
If you are interested please contact the Chairman Dawn Barrow on 07766 190201 or dawnbarrow@aol.com and be assured you will receive a warm welcome.
