*** In 1982 the History of the first 60 years of the Society was published.  Now, 25 years later, the Executive Committee have authorised Hamish Walker to bring it up to date.

'SWAOS The last 25 years 1982 - 2007' is available for the very reasonable price of £4.  Please contact Mr Hamish Walker for more information 01799 527735***

The Society has been proud to present many staged productions in the town since its formation in 1922.   Throughout the years shows have covered a vast range to suit all tastes including grand opera, Gilbert & Sullivan, operettas of Offenbach & Lehar and popular musicals.

The Objects as set out in the Rules are "the study and performance of operatic works, musical comedies, plays or entertainments, and the education of members and supporters in the arts of music and stagecraft".

In 1974 a Junior Section (now the Youth Group) was formed and it also presents a full-scale production each year.

Around 60 Acting Members and a growing number of Youth Group members are joined by well over 100 Vice Presdients, many of whom give support to the annual productions by way of providing the backstage crew and the front of house team.   The Soceity has now introduced Sponsorship and Corporate Membership for local firms and companies who also wish to lend their backing.

Every year in March the adults present seven performances of their chosen show in the Town Hall and in May the Youth Group provide their own entertaining show.   Staging productions such as these is very expensive with a show budget in excess of £15,000.   The Society Committee help towards making ends meet by arranging social activites to which all Acting Members, Vice Presidents and Life Members are invited and there are special fund-raising events.

On 20th June 2007 the Society voted in the Annual General Meeting to change the name of the Society from Saffron Walden Amateur Operatic Society to Saffron Walden Musical Theatre Company.