Although an amateur company, AAOC endeavours to present shows to a high standard. To this end our productions are performed in a professional theatre, scenery is hired from professional suppliers as are our costumes. The members of the orchestra, the Director, Musical Director and Choreographer are all professionals in their field.
In 2003 we celebrated our Centenary by performing Andrew Lloyd Webber’s musical, “Jesus Christ Superstar”. As part of our celebrations we held a Royal Gala which was attended by HRH Prince Edward.
The Company’s title is something of a misnomer because we no longer present opera or operetta and have for many years concentrated on musicals. AAOC members get great enjoyment out of appearing in a first class musical vehicle on a professional stage. They work hard under the direction of the production team to attain the expected standard of performance.
Rehearsals start around August or September and the full Company meets for rehearsal once per week up to the end of December, then for two nights per week thereafter. It is a big time commitment, but it is also an enjoyable winter pastime. We are totally self-funding and if we do make some profit on a production, then that money is distributed to local and national charities. Amongst the organisations to have benefited are Ayr OAP Associations, Riding for the Disabled, Autistic Children Society, Hansel Village, Ardfin House, Guide Dogs for the Blind, McMillan Nurses, Crosshouse Hospital Renal Unit and The Ayrshire Hospice.Our annual productions have become a local fixture attracting a audience of well over 2000 individuals.