A BECCLES-based performing group has recently been awarded a substantial grant from the Big Lottery Fund 'Awards for All' programme for audio equipment to use during their performances.

A BECCLES-based performing group has recently been awarded a substantial grant from the Big Lottery Fund 'Awards for All' programme for audio equipment to use during their performances.

Waveney Light Opera Group, which has been performing shows in the town's Public Hall for more than 40 years, successfully applied for financial assistance to help with the purchase of a sound mixing desk, power amplifiers, loudspeakers and associated cabling together with flight cases in which to store and transport it.

The modern shows the group is now performing, which in recent years have included “Little Shop of Horrors”, “Disco Inferno” and “Annie Get Your Gun”, demand high quality sound systems to ensure an effective balance between the stage performers and the band. The equipment they have now obtained will be put to good use in all future shows and will reduce the reliance on expensive hired kit.

A condition of the grant is that the group will encourage more people to become actively involved with local 'am dram' activities. Many people, particularly young people, would like to perform on stage as an amateur but lack the confidence or the vocal power to do so.

The group believes that the confidence that can come from using a radio microphone during a performance will encourage people with all levels of skill and talent to maximise their potential and raise the standards of their performances. In support of this objective, the group contributed half of the total cost of the equipment from their own reserves. Anybody interested in performing in future shows with the group or becoming involved in the technical activities of producing a show can contact John Cushing on 01502 712329.

The equipment purchased will be in use at the group's forthcoming performances of “Calamity Jane”. This classic musical comedy has many tender moments and some very famous numbers, including "Secret Love", "Black Hills Of Dakota", "Deadwood Stage" and "Windy City". Performances will be in Beccles Public Hall for five nights, Tuesday 14th October to Saturday 18th October 2008. Tickets costing £8.00, £8.50 & £9.00 and can be reserved by telephoning 01502 712329 or e-mail bookings@wlog.org.uk .