In 1970 a new start was made with a host of new members, and Marlene and Rick Gardner leading the way. The Topsham Pantomime was reintroduced, proving to be a great success, and the next 8 years saw T.A.D.S. launch into a series of farces and comedies which rebuilt both the society's reputation and the audience numbers.

In the late seventies and early eighties another change of direction was called for. While still continuing with the annual pantomime a 'Young TADS' group was also formed, and the main productions moved from straight plays to musicals. This brought about another rejuvenation, and shows such as 'Oliver', 'Sandbag' and 'Godspell' introduced T.A.D.S. to new and larger audiences.

These productions continued in a similar style until the arrival of Matthew Gardner as Musical Director. Such a talented musician and composer was bound to bring change, and a move to more ambitious and challenging productions had begun. A number of the subsequent shows have been his own Musicals, written especially for children and adults; and more recently he has taken T.A.D.S. into 4-part harmony choral singing with a spectacular production of popular songs from the 20th century, performed in full costume.

T.A.D.S. has changed over the years, no longer having committees or subscriptions, and our group consists of people from across the social spectrum. All we ask is that they have enthusiasm, and the ability to be more serious about what they are doing than about their own importance.

Not everyone can sing or act, or they think they can't, but with enthusiasm, T.A.D.S. has proved many people to be wrong. T.A.D.S. will give you the chance to find out - with encouragement, patience and humour. If at the end of the day you find that treading the boards is really not for you, then there are many other things to do to make sure our first class productions go on.

If you are interested in finding out more about what we do then why not give Marlene Gardner a call on 01392-873385, or email 'beautifulhouse@hotmail.com'