The Ghost Train
Come and celebrate the centenary of this tremendous play as Wellington Theatre Company take you for a thrilling ride of shocks, surprises and comedy, on
February 25, 2025
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Formed in the 1960’s, the Wellington Arts Association (WAA) brings together all groups interested in the Arts in the Wellington area under one roof and promotes their activities.
It is the home of The Wellington Pantomime Group, The Wellington Operatic Society, The Civic Players, Genesis Youth Theatre Group, Spectrum Arts And Crafts, Wellington Acoustic Club and our own in house bar – The Critics Club.
The Wellington (Somerset) & District Arts Association is a registered charity and company limited by guarantee.
The management committee is made up of a chairman, vice chairman, treasurer, secretary, membership secretary, events officer, facilities manager, health and safety manager, publicity manager, a member of each of the constituent groups as well as up to 4 other committee members.
By becoming a member of the association, you automatically become a member of all of our constituent groups, allowing you to attend any of our groups and join in with their activities. Membership also allows you to advance book WAA productions. We do require anyone who wishes to perform in any of our productions to become a member of the Association.
As a member, you will be able to enjoy membership of The Critics Club, the WAA’s members’ bar – a friendly meeting place where members can enjoy a drink and a chat.
On top of the productions and events organised by the constituent groups, the Arts Association also organises, hosts or supports a variety of events as part of its year round Arts programme.
Come and celebrate the centenary of this tremendous play as Wellington Theatre Company take you for a thrilling ride of shocks, surprises and comedy, on
Rehearsals have started and our cast are already rocking it! Keep an eye on our social media pages for exciting new content that’ll involve getting
📣📣📣📣BIG NEWS📣📣📣📣 Wellington Operatic Society’s next show will be 🥁🥁🥁🥁🥁 Made in Dagenham #madeindagenham #ford #strike #amdram #getinvolved
It is with sadness that we have to say that Sandra Kerry died on the 19th October. Not everyone will know her, but she was
The Wellington Pantomime Group was formed as an answer to a problem. The problem was that there was no real outlet for the younger talent in the area. Following an Operatic Society production of Oliver!, there was a ready pool of enthusiastic youngsters eager to continue performing. Recognizing this need, Geoff Goodwin and Mike Redstone had the foresight to create an organization that would provide the necessary platform for these young talents, and thus, the Wellington Pantomime Group was born.
In January 1975, the group staged its first pantomime, Dick Whittington, at the Arts Centre. This marked the beginning of an annual tradition, with the group putting on a pantomime each year at the Arts Centre until 1978. The early shows were produced on a shoestring budget, with funds raised through creative means such as a sponsored walk on the Quantocks. Despite the financial constraints, the first four pantomimes were played to full houses, demonstrating the community’s strong support and enthusiasm for these productions.
By 1979, the group’s popularity and reputation had grown significantly, prompting them to take a bold step and move their performances to the Wellesley Cinema. This move allowed the group to accommodate larger audiences and further expand their reach within the community. Over the years, the Wellington Pantomime Group continued to grow, both in terms of membership and the scale of their productions.
Today, the group enjoys a significantly larger budget, enabling them to produce more elaborate and high-quality shows. Each January, their pantomime production attracts an audience of around 2,000 people over the course of seven performances. The group’s commitment to providing a platform for young talent and their dedication to entertaining the community has solidified their reputation as a beloved and integral part of the local arts scene.
The Wellington Pantomime Group’s journey from its humble beginnings to its current success is a testament to the vision and hard work of its founders and members. Their story is one of passion, perseverance, and the power of community support, and they continue to inspire and nurture the next generation of performers.
The Pantomime Group have released the audition information for Once Upon A Time in Pantoland. (Indicated genders are guidelines for casting. Many roles could be
Wellington Pantomime Group is proud to announce they will be performing a brand new pantomime, titled Once Upon a Time in Pantoland in January 2023.
January Event Location Date/Time Contact Notes Acoustic Music Club M Sat 15th Jan, 7.30pm acousticclub@w-a-a.co.uk “Treasure Island” – our 2022 pantomime W Tues 25th
The committee and the creative team would like to thank all that auditioned, I loved seeing lots of new faces as well as regular cast
The Operatic Society was founded in 1962, with its inaugural show being the delightful production of O Ye Gods. Since its inception, the Society has been a cornerstone of the local arts community, entertaining audiences at The Wellesley with a wide array of popular and classic musicals. Over the years, they have brought to life beloved shows such as Oklahoma, My Fair Lady, Anything Goes, Show Boat, Oliver, South Pacific, and Singing in the Rain. In addition to these well-known classics, the Society has also taken on the challenge of performing lesser-known shows like Phil the Fluter, Sugar, and Summer Holiday, as well as newer productions such as Happy Days, School of Rock and Our House.
One of the unique aspects of the Operatic Society is that all aspects of their productions, including direction, choreography, lighting, sound, and stage management, are undertaken in-house. This approach provides ample opportunities for members to participate in various capacities, whether on-stage or behind the scenes. It fosters a sense of community and collaboration, allowing individuals to develop their skills and contribute to the success of each production.
In the autumn, the Society produces an all-singing, all-dancing show at The Arts Centre. These shows are always devised and directed by members, showcasing their creativity and talent. Occasionally presented in a cabaret style, these productions have included memorable performances such as Bless ‘Em All, Movie Magic, Back to the Sixties, Once Upon a Musical, A Slice of Lennon, and West End to Broadway. These autumn shows provide all members with a chance to shine on the smaller stage, offering a more intimate and engaging experience for both performers and audiences.
The Society also boasts a Touring Group, which plays a vital role in bringing entertainment to the wider community. This group performs for other organisations and at various local events as part of its year-round touring program. Their performances help to spread the joy of musical theatre and foster a greater appreciation for the arts within the community.
New members are always warmly welcomed and encouraged to take part in all the activities the Society offers. Whether you have a passion for performing, a knack for technical work, or simply a love for the arts, there is a place for you in the Operatic Society. Joining the Society provides an opportunity to be part of a vibrant and supportive community, where you can make new friends, develop your talents, and contribute to the rich cultural tapestry of the area.
Rehearsals have started and our cast are already rocking it! Keep an eye on our social media pages for exciting new content that’ll involve getting
📣📣📣📣BIG NEWS📣📣📣📣 Wellington Operatic Society’s next show will be 🥁🥁🥁🥁🥁 Made in Dagenham #madeindagenham #ford #strike #amdram #getinvolved
We were, once again, thrilled to have Andy Jones from Shooting Pixels come down to grab some amazing photos of our current production, Little Shop
On Thursday May 26th at 7pm the Operatic Society will introduce its autumn 2022 production“Cliff” which celebrates the songs of a true British icon, Sir
The Genesis Youth Theatre Group was founded in Wellington in March 1996 with the primary purpose of introducing young people to all aspects of the performing arts. This initiative was aimed at nurturing the talents of young individuals and providing them with a platform to explore and develop their skills in a supportive and creative environment.
Over the years, the group has staged a variety of hit plays, musicals, and cabarets, including notable productions such as Kes, Sparkleshark, Bugsy Malone, and the Genesis Showcases. Their performances have not only entertained audiences but also provided valuable learning experiences for the participants. The group has been an active participant in local festivals, performing as part of the Brewhouse Theatre’s ‘Fully Charged’ Festival and the Somerset Fellowship of Drama’s Youth Festival. One of their significant achievements includes writing and performing Think Twice, a highly-acclaimed and specially commissioned drugs awareness play. This impactful production toured various schools and youth organizations in the South West, raising awareness and educating young people about the dangers of drug use.
In addition to their theatrical performances, the Genesis Youth Theatre Group has also ventured into the world of film. They took part in a National Film Project in association with First Light Films, the UK Film Council, and Somerset Film and Video. This project provided members with the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in filmmaking, further broadening their artistic horizons.
The group underwent a re-launch in 2006, introducing a new and exciting program based around staging two or three performances each year. This revitalized approach has allowed members to immerse themselves in all aspects of staging a production, including performing, marketing, lighting, sound, make-up, costume, and stage management. Through a variety of workshops, members can develop a comprehensive understanding of the theatrical process and gain valuable skills that extend beyond the stage.
The Genesis Youth Theatre Group has also made its mark in local events, previously entering the Wellington and Taunton Carnival. These entries have served to promote their upcoming shows and the group itself, earning them several Class awards in the process. Their participation in these events highlights their commitment to community engagement and their ability to captivate audiences in various settings.
In 2015, the group received their first nominations and awards from The Somerset Fellowship of Drama, winning The Challenge Trophy. This prestigious recognition was awarded for their outstanding work towards their 2014 Summer Production, further cementing their reputation for excellence in youth theatre.
To join the Genesis Youth Theatre Group, individuals must be between the ages of 11 and 16, corresponding to secondary school age. The group meets every Wednesday evening during the school term time, from 7pm to 9pm. Due to popular demand and the casting requirements of performances, attendance is limited to 20 members.
For all contacts and inquiries, please reach out via email at: genesis@w-a-a.co.uk. The group is always eager to welcome new members and provide them with the opportunity to be part of a dynamic and creative community.
During the penultimate session of term company members get to grips with Special Effects make-up, the session was led by Jane from Fat Cat Theatre
November Event Location Date/Time Contact Notes “A Walk Down With Shaftesbury Avenue” A Tues 16th – Sat 20th Nov (7.30pm Daily + Matinee 20th 2.30pm)
Following their recent EGM, required due to the majority of previous committee members moving away to pursue other interests or having Covid-related changes to their
The Wellington Theatre Company, previously known as The Civic Players, has been a vibrant part of the Wellington Arts Association (WAA) for over 60 years. As the dramatic wing of the WAA, the company has a rich history of bringing compelling theatrical performances to the community, showcasing the talents of local actors, directors, and production teams.
In 2013, the company experienced a significant revitalization with the highly successful production of Calendar Girls. This production not only captivated audiences but also provided a platform to re-invigorate the group. It was during this time that the decision was made to rebrand the group as the Wellington Theatre Company, marking a new era of creativity and growth.
The Wellington Theatre Company is dedicated to producing a diverse range of theatrical works, from classic plays to contemporary dramas and comedies. Their commitment to high-quality productions has earned them a loyal following and a reputation for excellence in the local arts scene. Each production is a collaborative effort, with members contributing their skills and expertise in various areas of theatre production.
The company is always on the lookout for new performers and individuals who can assist with various aspects of their productions. Whether you have a passion for acting, directing, set design, costume creation, or prop coordination, there is a place for you in the Wellington Theatre Company. They value the contributions of all members and believe that everyone has something unique to offer.
Joining the Wellington Theatre Company provides an opportunity to be part of a dynamic and supportive community. It’s a chance to develop your skills, make new friends, and be involved in the magic of live theatre. The company is committed to fostering a welcoming environment where creativity can flourish, and members can grow both personally and artistically.
If you are interested in becoming a part of this vibrant theatre community, please get in touch with the Wellington Theatre Company. They are always eager to welcome new members and provide opportunities for involvement in their exciting productions. You can reach out to them via email at: civics@w-a-a.co.uk. Whether you’re a seasoned theatre professional or a newcomer with a passion for the arts, the Wellington Theatre Company would love to hear from you.
Come and celebrate the centenary of this tremendous play as Wellington Theatre Company take you for a thrilling ride of shocks, surprises and comedy, on
Anyone who has enjoyed The Play that Goes Wrong will know the sort of mayhem to expect! These Coarse Acting plays will be performed at
Spectrum Arts and Crafts operates as two distinct subgroups, each catering to different creative interests and skills. One subgroup focuses on producing works of art, including drawings, paintings, and other visual art forms. These artists bring their current projects to the meetings, where they can work on their pieces, share ideas, and receive feedback from fellow members. This collaborative environment fosters creativity and allows artists to learn from one another, enhancing their skills and broadening their artistic horizons.
The other subgroup revolves around crafts that typically involve needles and scissors. This includes activities such as knitting, patchwork, embroidery, crochet, and the creation of soft toys and household items like cushions. Members of this subgroup bring their ongoing projects to the meetings, where they can exchange tips, techniques, and patterns. The sharing of knowledge and experience is a key aspect of these gatherings, as members help each other improve their craft and discover new methods.
A highlight of the Spectrum Arts and Crafts meetings is the tea break halfway through the session. This break provides an opportunity for members to relax, socialize, and enjoy a cup of tea or coffee. It’s a time to chat about their projects, share stories, and build friendships. The tea break adds a social element to the meetings, making them not only productive but also enjoyable and engaging.
Meetings are held weekly on Monday afternoons from 2:00pm to 4:00pm, except during school holidays. These regular gatherings provide a consistent schedule for members to look forward to, offering a dedicated time each week to focus on their creative pursuits. The meetings are held at the newly refurbished Arts Centre in Eight Acre Lane, off South Street, near Wellington School. This convenient location makes it easy for members to attend and participate in the activities.
An extra bonus of the Spectrum Arts and Crafts meetings is the sense of friendship and community they foster. Many people in the community may feel that they have nothing to offer society, but they often possess valuable skills in craft areas that they can share with others. The meetings provide a friendly, informal setting where individuals can connect with like-minded people, share their talents, and feel a sense of belonging. This supportive environment helps to build confidence and encourages members to continue developing their skills.
If you would like to sample what Spectrum Arts and Crafts has to offer, you are warmly invited to come along to one of their Monday afternoon meetings. Whether you are an experienced artist or crafter, or someone looking to learn new skills and make new friends, Spectrum Arts and Crafts welcomes you to join their vibrant and creative community.
An afternoon at Spectrum is a very relaxed affair with members learning skills from one another. It is good to share ideas and learn new
The Wellington Acoustic Club meets on the third Saturday of every month at The Arts Centre, from 8:30pm until 11:00pm. This monthly gathering is a wonderful opportunity for music enthusiasts to come together and enjoy a night of acoustic music in a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere.
The club caters to all styles and types of music, ensuring that there is something for everyone. Whether you are a beginner just starting out, an experienced musician, or even a professional, you will find a supportive and encouraging environment at the Wellington Acoustic Club. The diversity of musical talent and genres makes each meeting unique and enjoyable for both performers and listeners.
Attendees are invited to come along to the Arts Centre bar, where they can either listen to the performances or join in and play. The informal setting allows for spontaneous collaborations and the sharing of musical ideas. It’s a great place to meet fellow musicians, make new friends, and be inspired by the talents of others. The bar is open during every meeting, providing a selection of drinks to enjoy while you soak in the music.
There is no charge to attend the Wellington Acoustic Club meetings, making it accessible to everyone. However, donations are welcomed and appreciated, as they help support the club and its activities. These contributions ensure that the club can continue to provide a platform for local musicians and music lovers to come together and celebrate their shared passion.
For more information about the Wellington Acoustic Club, who they are, and what they do, you can contact Tony Woollard at 01823 660969 or via email at: acousticclub@w-a-a.co.uk. Additionally, you can find them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/groups/wellington.acoustic.music.club/, where you can stay updated on upcoming meetings and events, and connect with other members of the club.
Whether you are a musician looking for a place to perform, or simply someone who loves acoustic music, the Wellington Acoustic Club offers a friendly and inclusive space where you can enjoy an evening of great music and good company. So, mark your calendar for the third Saturday of the month and come join the fun at The Arts Centre.
January Event Location Date/Time Contact Notes Acoustic Music Club M Sat 15th Jan, 7.30pm acousticclub@w-a-a.co.uk “Treasure Island” – our 2022 pantomime W Tues 25th
SEPTEMBER Event Location Date/Time Contact Notes AGMs: WAA, Critics Club + Genesis EGM A Tues 7th Sept 19.00 secretary@w-a-a.co.uk Open to the public but must
Wellington Arts AssociationWellington Arts Centre, Eight Ecre Lane, Wellington
No one in the Wellington Arts Association gets paid for anything (it’s even in our constitution!) members can’t be paid. So everyone from the cast of our shows right through to the people who manage our facilities are doing this for the love of delivering high calibre shows to our town.
In place of payment, we love hearing how much people appreciate what we offer and how much people love watching our shows.
We’d love it if you were to leave us a review on Google… every review makes us smile – so if you’ve got a spare few minutes we would love to hear from you.
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We just wanted to take a moment to say thank you to 34SP.com and give them a little shout-out. Their unwavering support has been invaluable to us, and we truly appreciate everything they do. It’s not often that you come across a company that goes above and beyond to help others, and 34SP.com has consistently demonstrated their commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction.
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