CODS is proud to have been entertaining you since 1964 and since setting out as a group performing the operettas of Gilbert and Sullivan, it has widened its chosen repertoire to include plays, pantomimes, well-known blockbuster musicals and those musicals (although some which may not be household names) which still bring delight to our audiences. 

CODS also has the unique challenge of having to build our own theatre which requires the dedication of not only those who perform on stage, but an incredibly talented array of craftspeople who spend hours preparing our set and seating.

Wardrobe mistresses, set painters, chaperones, social media gurus, tea and coffee makers and numerous other willing volunteers beaver away in the background to help produce the standard of performance that often amazes our audiences.

Many times comments have been generous in their praise of a CODS production and this is the norm that we aim to achieve. 

"Children of Eden" falls into the category for some where it is less well-known but despite that, it is already bringing delight to the cast and crew. 

Let me assure some of you that the theme is not religious but instead, just a musical adaptation of two stories that you may well be acquainted with, and for the first time in a while, there are no nuns!

Over the years, I have been fortunate enough to visit the West End to see productions such as "Les Miserables", "Phantom of the Opera" and "The Book of Mormon".

On the outset, I knew nothing about the story before I went and probably wouldn’t do a good synopsis now, but I know that each time, I was absolutely mesmerised by the music. This is the strength of "Children of Eden". 

CODS members have been rehearsing for five months to prepare this performance which we know our audiences will love.

Written by Stephen Schwartz, CODS has already performed works by him such as "Godspell" and "The Baker’s Wife".

He also wrote "Wicked" which I’m sure many of you will have heard of. Interestingly, the touring company of "Wicked" is visiting Bristol in the near future and maybe some of you might be tempted to go and watch.

I can tell you that tickets are priced up to £138 and therefore, for 90 per cent less, why not come and listen to similar music here in your own back yard?

Those who have been to our productions will know that if Buffy May is the leading lady you are bound to be listening to some excellent singing. Blowing my own trumpet, the challenge that this music presents has also managed to bring out the best in my voice.

Also treading the boards once more is Nikki Wilkes, whose performance last year of Maria in "The Sound of Music" was appreciated by many of you. 

So please support us so we will be in a strong position to carry on entertaining you, the people of Crediton and district, for another 60 years.

The production runs from Tuesday, April 11 to Saturday, April 15.

It is being held at Queen Elizabeth's School's Barnfield campus hall with performances at 7.30pm. Tickets are priced at £15 for adults, £12.50 for concessions and £10 for Under 16’s.

Tickets can be purchased by either going through the Box Office link at: www.codsonline.com or by emailing me direct on: [email protected] .

Mike Canning