BANGOR OPERATIC SOCIETY (founded 1919)

The idea occurred to Dr Emery and another Bangor man in the First World War trenches that Bangor did not have a musical society.  They vowed that if they survived the War they would create one.  In 1919 Bangor Amateur (later dropped) Operatic Society was founded under the patronage of Lady Clanmorris.  Early productions included The Pirates of Penzance, HMS Pinafore, The Mikado and The Gondoliers.

During World War II, BAOS entertained the troops in Bangor and Belfast.  One particular show, The Desert Song, was so successful that they were invited to play it at The Hippodrome, Belfast – the first night was for an audience of American servicemen.  Success followed success and shows were staged in the Tonic Cinema, The Hippodrome, The Empire Theatre and the Grand Opera House.

In 1949 the Society acquired a building in Central Avenue and converted it into The Little Theatre.  Following from this, the society started to stage annual Pantomimes and then entered the world of writers such as Rogers & Hammerstein.  During this period many show and individual awards were won.  Alas in 1992 The Little Theatre had to be sold and the society has survived all these years playing in School and Church Halls.  There is still no sign of a theatre!

Some members have gone on to perform on the professional stage and television – notably the late Colin Blakely, Billy Porter, Zoe Rainey, Christopher Logan, Nathan Pope and Zoe Salmon.  Other members have and are studying in prestigious academies such as the Guildhall and RADA.

Even in these difficult financial times, we are endevouring to produce shows of a high standard.   Bangor Operatic Society has a glorious history – let us all work together to ensure that it has a bright future..

Compiled by Peter Radcliffe, Maureen Campbell and Sheelagh Hobart

Edited by Janet Holland for the website