While the rest of the world grapples with the impact of COVID-19, with arts and entertainment all but shut down, the Alexandra Musical Society is not taking home for granted.

While those overseas have had to put shows on hold, musical performances here are able to go ahead, with local groups grateful for the opportunity to do what makes them sing. 

 Alexandra Musical Society President Nick Meissel said the group is all about bringing the community together through performance. 

“We provide opportunities for people of all ages and ability levels to engage socially through the arts. 

“Whether on stage as a performer or offstage involved with the veritable army of technical supporters, there is something for everyone to do. 

“After 2020 and the emergence of the term "social distancing" it's important, now more than ever, for us as a community to come together socially to build connections. 

“We are so very lucky here in New Zealand to be able to carry on as close to normal as we have known it. 

“Elsewhere in the world arts events are all but shut down and continue to be threatened. At AMS we are always looking for people to come on board and be a part of the fun. 

“It's a fabulous way to get to know others and to give back to your community.”

Nick says everybody is excited with the society’s 2021 lineup. 

“We kick start the year with our annual Stars in Their Eyes production,” Nick says. This has been a staple for Central audiences for 20 years and continues to be a sellout.

“This year we are presenting our Stars from February 17-20 at the Alexandra Community Centre. 

“Tickets will be available soon. We are very lucky to have Frans Theewis back again as our director with another great lineup of new and familiar 'Star' performers.”

It's not too late to be a part of this great event - auditions run  Thursday January 14 and Friday January 15 at the AMS rooms on Enterprise Street from 7-9pm. 

“The auditions are open so people don't need to book a time, they can turn up at any point during those evenings. 

“If they can't make those days, they can contact [email protected] and register their interest there.”

The Alexandra Musical Society will again perform ‘Stars in their Eyes’ this year, with auditions held this week (Thursday and Friday) at the AMS rooms on Enterprise St from 7-9pm.

The Children's theatre also returns again this year. This biennial production is open for young children up to the age of 13 and is performed at the Musical Theatre rooms on Enterprise Street. 

“It's a wonderful opportunity for our young people to get involved in theatre in a safe and non-pressured environment,” Nick says. 

“Opportunities such as these are great stepping stones for kids who want to build confidence and social connections, or who want to build their skills with the idea of performing in 'big' productions further down the track.” 

Audition notices will be posted later in the year once a creative team is in place. 

Chitty Chitty Bang Bang is the Society's big musical production for the year, due to be performed in September alongside the Blossom festival Celebrations. 

“This family classic is a favourite with everyone, both young and old alike, but especially for families,” Nick says. 

“The exciting journey Caractacus Potts and his children embark upon, aided by their fantastical car Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, entertains us all. 

“The show is packed with wonderfully upbeat songs such as Me Ol' Bamboo' and The Roses of Success but also soft and tender ballads such as Hushabye Mountain and Truly Scrumptious. 

“Work is already well underway with this exciting production and we will be appointing a creative team to bring the story to life very soon. 

“In saying that there are wonderful roles for performers wanting to get involved with this production, great leading roles, fun character cameos and plenty of singing, dancing and acting if you want be a part of the chorus.” 

“Needless to say, we will also need amazing people behind the scenes too! Get in touch with us if you're keen to help out.” 

Anyone wanting to become involved can contact Dona at [email protected] 

Images courtesy Alexandra Musical Society. 

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