THE 1920's

In 1921 the Society reformed with "The Mikado" which was presented in the last week of May 1922 again in the old Theatre Royal under the direction of Madame Forbes Wilson.  The part of Nanki-Poo was taken by Jackie Johnston who took the role of the Duke of Dunstable in the society's first production of "Patience" in 1905. Playing the organ in this first production was Mr Alfred Robertson, who became Musical Director of the Society in 1922 and, apart from a short break of two years, remained in that post until his death in 1965,  His wife, Ethel, took the part of Inez.  His son, daughter, son-in-law, and their children and grandchildren continue an unbroken link back to the early days of the Society.

Together with the notices advertising the 1923 "The Gondoliers" there appeared an advert announcing the complete operetta could be purchased on eleven double sided HMV records for the sum of £4/2/6d! - (£4.25)

In 1924 the society produced "The Rebel Maid" - which includes the popular song "The Fishermen of England"  - and did not present any further Gilbert and Sullivan operettas for another 14 years, until 1938.

 "The Rose of Araby" in May 1925 was a tremendous success financially and with the general public.  The Whitehaven News commented 'Had the Theatre Royal been twice as large it would have failed to accommodate those desirous of being present at the last performance of "The Rose of Araby".  Shortly after 4 o'clock queues started to form near the unbooked entrance, proof of the determination to be present at bouquet night.  The audience was of the type that gladdens the heart of an artiste, frankly appreciative.  Some of the principal numbers and dances were given no fewer than four encores and the 'What a Scream' trio experienced  the utmost difficulty in shaking off a particularly tenacious audience appealing for more'.  The 'What a Scream' trio contained encore verses with a local flavour written by Dr Ablett which made references to the Bransty Arches, new Loop Road and the harbour..

From 1926 to 1934 the Society presented shows that are now no longer heard..  They include "Havannah", "Princess Caprice", "My Lady Molly", "Katinka",  "The Boy", and "Sybil".