Opera Comique was marking the start of their 50th year, having been formed in 1976 for a concert in Portsmouth Guildhall, since when performances of the Gilbert & Sullivan operas have been given in the Hampshire and Sussex area, with overseas visits to the USA, Germany, Finland and notably Venice where The Gondoliers was performed twice.Full details of our history may be found at www.operacomique.org.uk

. The 18th October concert opened with 'Trial by Jury, on its 150th anniversary, followed by selections from the most  popular operettas 'HMS Pinafore', The Mikado', 'Pirates of Penzance' and ' The Gondoliers', with soloists from past Opera Comique productions, many of whom had been founder members !

The event was also meant to mark a significant birthday for me, but the day before I was hit by a virus which put me out of action for a week H However, the show went on successfully, with Denise Baugh and Geoff Porter taking over conducting duties, aided by accompanist Nigel Smith, a founder trustee. My sincere thanks to them and Opera Comique members who pulled things together with the usual efficient support of Mike and Gill Prosser from the church.

I am delighted to report that over £500 was raised from a large and enthusiastic audience - all proceeds going to refurbishment of the church organ. There will be further musical events during 2026, notably to mark the 150 anniversary of St Johns church itself in May !

Kevin Sivyer   Founder, Trustee of Opera Comique