AS a Director you set out with a vision for the production you will bring to the stage but I couldn’t in my wildest dreams imagine the outcome would be as well received as last week’s production of “Beauty and the Beast” held in Queen Elizabeth’s School’s Barnfield hall.

A finale scene from CODS production of the Disney musical, Beauty and the Beast. Image: Rory Oliver
A finale scene from CODS production of the Disney musical, Beauty and the Beast. Image: Rory Oliver (Rory Oliver)

Principals take a bow at the end of a performance. Image: Rory Oliver
Principals take a bow at the end of a performance. Image: Rory Oliver (Rory Oliver)

It was humbling to receive so many messages of congratulations from our audiences which makes all the effort truly worthwhile.

So many could be quoted but Mike Palmer said: “Congratulations to everybody on a very successful production of ‘Beauty and the Beast’.

“As with all CODS Easter productions, this has been a sustained effort for more than half a year!

“From the first introduction, the auditions, then endless rehearsals, plus the design and preparation of the set, the organising of the costumes, the music, and all the other departments. This is a mammoth commitment.

“Turning a school hall into a theatre is no easy task. But all the effort was well worth it!

Some of the Principals who took part in CODS production of the Disney musical, Beauty and the Beast. Image: Rory Oliver
Some of the Principals who took part in CODS production of the Disney musical, Beauty and the Beast. Image: Rory Oliver (Rory Oliver)

Cogsworth played by Steph Morgan, Mrs Potts played by Buffy May and Lumiere played by Holly Harris, on stage for CODS Beauty and the Beast. Image: Rory Oliver
Cogsworth played by Steph Morgan, Mrs Potts played by Buffy May and Lumiere played by Holly Harris, on stage for CODS Beauty and the Beast. Image: Rory Oliver (Rory Oliver)

“It was a delightful show. Lovely characterisations, costumes and choreography, backed by a superb band.

“A fairytale brought to life, transporting the audience far away from the daily cares of our lives, into a fantasy world.

“You did that with great aplomb. Everyone had a smile on their face, and the ovation after the show was well deserved!’

So for another production the run is complete. But CODS carries on, this Wednesday we start rehearsals for our September concerts.

Principal Victoria Woods played the part of Belle in CODS musical Beauty and the Beast. Image: Rory Oliver
Principal Victoria Woods played the part of Belle in CODS musical Beauty and the Beast. Image: Rory Oliver (Rory Oliver)

On Wednesday, April 30 the new CODS Youth Academy starts at 6.30pm in the Old Town Hall.

Did you know that there is going to be a Panto just before Xmas? Oh yes there is! Come along any Wednesday from 7.30pm and join our group.

So many did for "Beauty and the Beast" and it’s so pleasing to hear that they are staying.

Mike Canning