We're now blogging!

It's been on our 'to do' list for a long time, but we've finally set up our blog to replace the news pages on our website.  Whether you're a current member or previous member of BATS, or one of our patrons, we'll provide updates about our productions, our social events as well as general news about what we're up to.

So our blog isn't too empty, we've added some existing content from our website to get us going!  Have a browse back over the past few years to read about productions you may have been involved in or watched.

NODA accolade of musical excellence for The Wizard of Oz

We were delighted to be awarded an accolade of excellence by the National Operatic and Dramatic Association (NODA) for our production of The Wizard of Oz (November 2014).

The award was made at the annual general meeting for societies based in the South East region of the UK, which was held in Alton on 5 July 215.

NODA accolade of excellence certificate for The Wizard of Oz, BATS

As well as recognising the overall standard of the production, the award specifically recognised the technical planning and creativity that went into the production that provided a wow factor for audiences.  These included a revolving yellow brick road, video animation and lighting/special effects.

Wizard Support for The British Legion

A big thank you to our audiences who contributed towards the collection in aid of The Royal British Legion during our production of The Wizard of Oz.

Overall a total of £600 was raised in the year that marked the 100th anniversary of the outbreak of the First World War.

Poppies used in the production of The Wizard of Oz

Support for Children in Need Appeal 2011

A big thank you to our audience during Guys and Dolls!

We would like to extend a big "thank you" to all of the patrons who came to see our production of Guys and Dolls in November 2011 and who donated to our collection for BBC Children in Need at at the end of each performance.

With your help we raised a total of over £550 towards this year's appeal.

BBC Children in Need - Official fundraiser logo

Generous Support for St. Michael's Hospice

Audience members that attended Basingstoke Amateur Theatrical Society’s performances of South Pacific during 17 – 21 May 2011 showed their generous support for St. Michael’s Hospice. During the run of South Pacific a collection was taken by representatives from St. Michael’s Hospice at the end of each performance that raised a total of £434.02.

The collection was made in memory of long-standing, former BATS member Len Annakin, who sadly passed away in February 2011.

Helena Maskell, Community Fundraising Manager for St. Michael’s Hospice said: “It was a delight to hear how much everyone has enjoyed the show and their enthusiasm for local theatre. The support of community is essential to the Hospice and we really appreciate BATS allowing us to collect in this way.”

St. Michael’s Hospice cares for local people with a life-limiting illness through their In-Patient Unit, Day Care facilities and Hospice at Home service. It also provides additional Out-Patient services including the Therapeutic Clinic, Complementary Therapy and Medical Consultation. The services are provided free-of-charge to patients and their families.

Helena added: “The money raised via the BATS collection will go towards the annual running costs of the Hospice, £3m, of which £2.3m needs to be raised through fundraising and retail activities.”

Visit the St. Michael’s Hospice website for further information.