About EUSOG

EUSOG Past and Present

Edinburgh University Savoy Opera Group was formed in 1961 by Edinburgh University students to promote and perform the operettas of William Gilbert and Arthur Sullivan. Since its inception EUSOG has expanded beyond this original aim and enchanted Edinburgh audiences with innovative performances of Savoy Opera and musicals alike. Today the society enthusiastically preserves its reputation for theatrical excellence and diversity as we present musicals from the likes of Larson, Gershwin and Sondheim alongside Gilbert and Sullivan.

"...five-star company EUSOG will undoubtedly have cynics dancing in the aisles." -- The Scotsman, 2009

Savoy’s continuing aim is to produce high quality performances for the benefit and enjoyment of our members and audiences, and we are delighted to constantly expand our list of young and gifted performers, directors and technical staff, who's united dynamic visions and infectious dedication ensure EUSOG are always "proud to present" to the Edinburgh public.

***** "The cast members shine...a superb performance" -- Three Weeks, 2009

Despite the fact that all of EUSOG’s shows are produced and directed by amateurs, our productions are consistently hailed with critical acclaim thanks to the efforts of our talented and aspiring membership. “Savoyards” frequently continue their passion for musical theatre after University; recent alumni include a West End director and a conductor of the Scottish Symphony Orchestra

The EUSOG Year

Savoy has put on three shows a year since 1993; a musical at the Pleasance Theatre in November, a G&S at the Churchill Theatre in March, and at least one show at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. Both the November and the Fringe shows are selected by proposing Production teams, whilst the G&S is selected by the EUSOG committee on a cyclical basis

EUSOG Audiences

EUSOG attracts a wide range of people to its shows. A very prominent group are students, due to the society’s affiliation with Edinburgh University, but the society also attracts members from other educational institutions as well as non-students. This  is reflected in the makeup of audiences which attend our shows.

There is quite a strong contingent of G&S enthusiasts as well as people local to the venue, particularly when EUSOG performs at the Churchill Theatre in Morningside. The strength of local  support is reflected in the size of the mailing list, which in  the previous year has grown to over three hundred people. In addition, we are hoping to encourage more schoolchildren  to attend performances, as we feel the society is able to present musical theatre of a standard that would both help, inform and inspire them to follow an interest in the medium.

The EUSOG Constitution

All societies of Edinburgh University must have a constitution which specifies its aims, office-bearers and various other rules and regulations.  Our constitution can be accessed here.