It is congratulations to Largs Amateur Operatic Society as they recently celebrated their Platinum Anniversary with a special anniversary dinner in the Brisbane House Hotel, Largs.

The President, Fiona Page, welcomed members - past and present, Patrons and Friends. She thanked Lynsey Ewing and Morag Robertson for organising the evening.

She commented that those present were at the Brisbane House Hotel to celebrate the continued success of LAOS. From that first production of 'A Country Girl' in 1947 to the 2016 production of 'Evita' enthusiastic members have come together to 'put on a show' for local audiences.

Over the years the Producers and Musical Directors have brought their vision of each show to the stage at Barrfields with the help of Back Stage Crews, Lighting and Sound experts, Costume and Make-up artists and talented musicians who have made up the orchestra. Also there has been the Front of House support of ushers, programme and raffle ticket sellers and those selling refreshments.

Whether Behind the Scenes, in the Orchestra pit or Front of House they are too numerous to name individually but their efforts and professionalism have been much appreciated over the last seventy years.

Of course, the show would not go on without a cast – The Principals and the Chorus. Each with a crucial role to play! The members have done the Club proud for 70 years with their dedication to bringing a professional performance to each Largs Amateur Operatic Society production. The hard work in rehearsals pays off when audiences show their appreciation with a hearty round of applause or a standing ovation.

The LAOS membership secretary has kept meticulous records. In line with the governing body NODA, the playing members are credited with their years of active participation with LAOS.

The committee acknowledged membership with LAOS for every five year milestone, starting from 10 years.

Fiona presented certificates to: (10) Margaret Docherty, Hugh Douglas, Eila Handyside, Janine Millward, Bob Randall, Elizabeth Robertson, Jimmy Wilson. (15) Ian Macdonald (20) David Cameron, Jess Scott, Sheila Gullick, Jim MacPhie (25) Irene Cameron and Bert Tait (30) Frazer MacPhail and Bill Weir (45) Nan Fulton

In addition to musical Productions the club can be proud of the entertainment provided by the Concert Party, which offers musical evenings for our Patrons and various local groups throughout the year.

For many years now the accompanist has been Judith McNaught, who was made an Honorary Member.

Although there was a wonderful turnout there were several well-kent faces not present. Members and friends who were absent due to ill health, wedding celebrations, other commitments or distance and the many past members and patrons who had sadly passed away were remembered in a toast to Absent Friends.

No celebration is complete without a cake. Fiona Anderson, a LAOS Patron cut the cake, which had been made by club member Lynne Cameron-Finn.

Fiona closed her President's remarks by saying that the club must also look forward to the continuing success of LAOS. It is the members, the patrons and the friends of the club that make it what it is. Their enthusiasm and support will carry us forward to our next production, Oklahoma and the ones which follow that! She called upon Frazer MacPhail to propose the toast to the club.

The company enjoyed a three course meal and later tea/ coffee and cake.

Due to a problem with the electrical supply much of the evening was enjoyed by candle light which offered a pleasant ambiance for the gathering. The evening was rounded off with musical entertainment expertly provided by 'A Handful of Harmony'. Ben, Chris, Ailie and Ruth sang a beautiful selection of songs.

Behind the scenes in an early 1970s production, Jean Crawford putting the finishing touches on Elizabeth Samuel during a make-up session, with Brenda Dick in the background.