2023 was a big year for Guiseley Amateur Operatic Society (re-named Guiseley Theatrical Productions in 2019) as it celebrated its centenary year.

It was formed following a meeting in May 1923 at the Drill Hall in Victoria Road, Guiseley and the first production, 'Highwayman Love' was performed at Guiseley Town Hall in February 1924. In those days it was Guiseley Ambulance Operatic Society as the first aim was to provide funds for a Motor Ambulance for Guiseley.

The 'Amateurs' shows were always performed at Guiseley Town Hall and indeed the Society took over the running of the Town Hall in 1981, on behalf of the community, when Leeds City Council threatened closure of the building. The Town Hall was renamed Guiseley Theatre. The Theatre Board continued until 2019 when a Community Interest Company was formed and took over responsibility on 1st January 2020.

Centenary year began with a fund raising Murder Mystery evening at Guiseley Factory Workers Club, then in April it was announced that due to technical issues the productions for 2023 were being transferred to Yeadon Town Hall. This was a bombshell! But the show must go on! and 'Brassed Off' maintained the Society's high standard with five polished performances in August.

In September a Gala Dinner at Hoyle Court, Baildon was enjoyed by members old and new and 'School of Rock' was performed at Yeadon Town Hall on November 15th-18th.

To mark the centenary year, Christine Roberts, Society Archivist and Life member has compiled a Centenary Brochure. This is to compliment the Jubilee Brochure written in 1973 and details the Society's shows and memories of the past 50 years.

Copies (£5) are still available, contact Christine Roberts, roberts.christine5@btinternet.com.