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30
Jan 2024
Harrogate musical theatre company celebrates 100 years
Harrogate musical theatre company HOPs is staging a series of celebratory shows and events this year to mark its centenary.
HOPs, formerly known as Harrogate Operatic Players, will perform Made in Dagenham from June 11 to 15 at Harrogate Theatre.
Its other plans include a centenary ball and afternoon tea to allow past and present members to come together and reminisce.
Made in Dagenham follows sell-out performances of Chity Chitty Bang Bang and Kinky Boots in recent years. Musical director Jim Lunt and director and choreographer, Mike Kirkby, will return for the summer production.
Mike said:
HOPs president Christine Littlewood said:
HOPs president Christine Littlewood
Formed in 1924
The Harrogate Operatic Players was formed in March 1924 and its first performance was Trial By Jury at the Winter Gardens in May 1924. Since then, it has performed almost every year. Its shows have included The King and I in 1966, Oliver in 1974 and My Fair Lady in 1978 and 2019.
Understandably, the only years missed were 1940-45 during the Second World War. However, they managed to hold restricted performances of ‘Musical Squares - A Covid Concert’ during the covid pandemic.
The trustees choose shows which accommodate all ages into the cast.
In recent years, they have made a push to raise the quality of their costumes, sound and marketing.
For further information on HOPS visit here and for more information on the production visit here.
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