There is a true family feeling to Campaign Amateur Theatre's May production of Oliver at the Maltings, Ely. Our picture shows 19 cast members who are related as follows: Gail Newton (Musical Director) sang the role of the Rose Seller in C.A.T.'s 1994 Oliver production; this role is now being sung by her daughter Hayley. Cathy Tofts (daughter of Constance Heald (Piano Accompanist)) takes the role of Mrs. Bledwin. Daniel (Oliver), Jamie (Dodger) and Jade (Bet) are all part of the O'Kane family. Stephen Smith (Bill Sykes) has daughter Kattreya in the show. Likewise Len Lendrem (Mr. Sowerberry) and daughter Faye are performing in the production. Justin & Gemma Phillips, Daniel & Caroline Watson are also appearing. Vivien Aggett (Milk Seller) has son Tom as one of Fagin's Gang, and Jan White (secretary/treasurer of C.A.T.) has granddaughter Kelsey treading the boards for the first time.

A Dickens of a family musical!

Campaign Amateur Theatre was formed in 1969 by a small group of enthusiasts from RAF Hospital Ely, their first production being Oliver. Since its conception, the company has gone from strength to strength.

The Society now performs three musical productions each year, from popular and well-known musicals to Gilbert & Sullivan favourites and usually a Pantomime in January. Members are also happy to perform small concerts and carol singing for W.I. members and other groups throughout the year.

One of the Society's primary aims is to raise money for Cancer Research and to date it has donated many thousands of pounds to the Strangeways Laboratory in Cambridge. These donations go towards the purchase of equipment for the Laboratory's use in Cancer and Arthritis research.

34 years on, the Society now has a thriving membership with plenty of young people on stream who will be 'stars' in the coming years. Our productions are now staged at The Maltings in Ely - a lovely old building next to the river.

We normally meet for rehearsals on Thursday evenings at City of Ely College, Downham Road, Ely, from 7.30pm with additional rehearsals for principals on Tuesday nights as required. Why not come along to see us, or contact us.

Our web site includes more information, our past productions, and current productions, how to join us and how to find us. Please visit our Website. For further information please contact us.