It was under the instigation of the late Mr Arnold Jones that the “Wolverton and District Gilbert & Sullivan Society” was formed in 1974. In more recent years the society has become known simply as the Wolverton Gilbert & Sullivan Society. It was through Arnold’s continued drive, enthusiasm and determination as Musical Director for 17 years (conducting every production between 1975 and 1992), that the society rapidly developed and went from strength to strength.

The first staged production was HMS Pinafore in May 1975 and followed by Trial by Jury later the same year. This performance was held at the College of Further Education on the Stratford Road, Wolverton (now demolished), under the Musical Direction of the founder Mr Arnold Jones and produced by Mr Fred Wells. Rehearsals took place in a very damp and cold ‘Tin Hut’ on Peel Road. Many members were new to amateur theatricals, and had only heard the music of Gilbert & Sullivan on the radio. Some were horrified to find not only was there dialogue, but that they were expected to sing and move, at the same time! Arnold issued everyone with a sheet on the basics of music theory and how to read music, and Fred, through his patience, turned a bunch of ‘Green Hocks’ into a successful performing company. Costumes and scenery were made by the cast, and the rigging on board ship was constructed from tow ropes borrowed from the old railway works. How times have changed! Over the past 30 years almost 300 people have sung with the Society, bringing enjoyment to the audiences of Milton Keynes, and keeping the tradition of Gilbert & Sullivan alive, through their lively and innovative approach to the Savoy Operas.