Midlands Theatre Scene is simply buzzing

The Shropshire area is simply buzzing with all kinds of productions over the next couple of weeks.

Telford and District Light Operatic Players, or TADLOP as they are affectionately known, are presenting the musical adaptation of The Secret Garden at Oakengates Theatre from May 29-31. For tickets, priced at £14-£12 contact 01952 382382 or visit www.tadlop.com

At the Walker Theatre, which is part of Shrewsbury's Theatre Severn complex, The Viv Kelly Youth Theatre Group is presenting Miss Saigon (school edition) from May 30-June 1.

This West End smash is brought to life by this vibrant young company. This latest schools' edition is proving to be extremely popular amongst youth groups, the original version having been "tamed" for young people to perform. It is a heart-wrenching musical, but completely unmissable all the same. For tickets, at £12, visit www.theatresevern.co.uk or call 01743 281281.

Fancy yourself as a Fairy Godmother, Wicked Queen or Ugly Sister? Pantomime is never far away and in Wolverhampton, a new group has been set up called Starlight Productions.

Founder member of the now disbanded group, Deeva Productions, Ben Biddle, is on the lookout for new members to join him this new venture to perform Cinderella on January 9 -11 2014. Ben is holding a meet and greet event at Shareshill Village Hall at 1pm on June 2nd.

Rehearsals will be held at Tettenhall Wood School in Regis Road, Tettenhall Wood, commencing in July. Ben has also set up a Facebook page for the group so why not visit it? Alternatively, you can email starlightproductions2013@gmail.com for more information.

Still looking ahead to 2014, Willenhall Musical Theatre Company wishes to recruit a musical director, director, choreographer and accompanist for their show next year, which is Thoroughly Modern Millie. Apply by email to colinchris06@btinternet.com by the end of June.

Here's a simply but effective way of promoting your production. On every third Monday of the month, the Old Joint Stock Theatre, based in Birmingham, is offering the opportunity for literally anyone to go along and get up on stage for one minute to promote their play, musical, workshop or theatre company. The evening then continues with theatre readings and guest speaker and a questions and answer session.

Think about it. You have a captive audience of theatre-goers already. It is free of charge and you might meet like-minded people who want to come and take part in your production. Visit www.theatreexchange@hotmail.co.uk or www.oldjointstocktheatre.co.uk for more information.

Well that's all for this week. Keep those emails coming to a.norton@expressandstar.co.uk or call me on 01902 319662. You can also follow me on Twitter @AlisonNorton

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