noda.org.uk
Welcome to NODA
Whether you are staging a musical, an opera, a play, a concert or a pantomime, as the UK’s leading amateur theatre membership organisation, NODA is here for every show, every rehearsal, every curtain call – here for our members every step of the way.
From just starting out to centre stage; village halls to professional venues; NODA exists to celebrate, connect, support and amplify amateur theatre and theatre groups across the UK.
We provide invaluable services, expertise and resources which help thousands of our member groups create and produce theatre that enhances lives and benefits communities everywhere.
Whatever your passion, level of experience or stage of life, we are here to help everyone enjoy the unique benefits, opportunities and sense of community that live performance can bring.
NODA For every stage
Welcome to NODA!
We’re delighted to have you join our thriving community, where we celebrate, connect, support and amplify amateur theatre and the performing arts across the UK. As a new member, you’re becoming part of a passionate network dedicated to the growth and sustainability of local theatre, offering countless opportunities for creative expression and personal development.
This welcome pack contains valuable information to help you make the most of your membership. If you have any questions or need assistance, our friendly Head Office team is always here to help. Your regional representative will be your main point of contact for day-to-day queries and don’t forget to invite them to your next production!
NODA collaborates with trusted partners, such as Lloyd & Whyte, who provide an excellent insurance package tailored for our members. Make sure to reach out to them for a quote to ensure your theatre group is fully covered.
For times when legal support is necessary, NODA offers access to a legal helpline. While we are not a governing body and cannot intervene directly. This resource is here to guide you through any challenges.
We encourage you to fully explore all that NODA has to offer. Whether you belong to a well-established theatre society or are just beginning your journey in amateur performance, there are countless opportunities here to learn, grow and embrace the joy of theatre.
At NODA, you’re among friends who share your passion for the performing arts. Together, we work to keep amateur theatre vibrant, innovative and inspiring for future generations.
Once again, welcome to NODA. We can’t wait to see the incredible productions you’ll bring to life!
NODA
For every stage
A brief history of NODA
NODA was formed in 1899, in a meeting at the Grosvenor Hotel, in Manchester as a ‘Mutual Aid Society’. By November of that year, there were 41 societies affiliated.
1910 - The Mask was published, showing the original association logo.
1911 - The Mask was discontinued.
1924 - Silver Jubilee. Introduction of new logo
1925 - ‘Amateur’ dropped from the name, becoming NODA.
1926 - First offices taken at the Scala Theatre in London.
1927 - 3000 volumes in the association’s library and the Carnegie Trust Grant was given to expand the NODA Library.
1929 - The first attempt at a NODA Summer School failed. NODA Limited was formed as an Agency for 30 producers. NODA became the rightsholder for several works.
1930 - The first award of a NODA Long Service Medal for 25 years continuous service.
1941 - In April, there was bomb damage to the Eccleston Square office.
1949 - NODA Golden Jubilee. Publication of 50 Years of Amateur Theatre.
1950 - The first eight-day Summer School.
1954 - NODA moved to No. 1, Crestfield Street, London.
1959 - NODA Diamond Jubilee.
1960 - Queen Elizabeth, The Queen Mother became patron.
1968 - NODA registered as a charity. The programme design competition was inaugurated.
1975 - 75th anniversary of NODA with a reception at St. James’ Palace with the patron.
1978 - Resolution to dissolve the association defeated in Cardiff.
1987 - The Technical Summer School began.
1998 - The first combined Summer School was held.
2001 - NODA moved to Peterborough.
2016 - Launched the new CRM system, simplifying storing member details.
2024 - 125th anniversary of NODA. The launch of the new NODA design and website.
A. P. Bulfiled. Considered the founding father of NODA.
NODA of the future
In 2022, as NODA approached its 125th anniversary, NODA Council recognised the need for change to secure the future of the charity. With membership numbers slowly falling for the last decade, an ambitious plan was created to overhaul our current membership offer and repackage it in a new brand.
Fast forward to September 2024, our 125th anniversary year, NODA launched the new brand with the tag line - for every stage, encompassing our long heritage into a modern, fresh new look.
So what does the new brand mean? It has been developed with the input and help of a number of colleagues from across the organisation, to ensure that it is equally reflective of our ambitions for the future but also authentic to the organisation.
At the heart of our new strategy is a challenge, and it is one to embrace to ensure that NODA, in the future, fulfils its potential and has the greatest impact going forwards. That challenge is for us all to make sure that NODA is known for and respected for being relevant, visible and valued.
Relevant: To thrive, we must make sure that we celebrate, support and champion all of Amateur Theatre and that, as well as providing
the support and services our members need, we are at the centre of conversations about Amateur Theatre and its many benefits. By supporting members, championing the sector and responding to issues and opportunities on their behalf, we can continue to inspire and to create opportunity for individuals, groups and their communities.
Visible: We are going to take a leading role in promoting the unique benefits and positive impacts of this wonderful pastime, as well as supporting our members to spread the word. Together, we will continue to inspire all the audiences and stakeholders who can help our members, and NODA, to thrive.
Valued: NODA must recognise that we are here for the benefit of our members and volunteer community. So we will always provide support and services of the highest quality and effectiveness for them, as well as helping to create opportunities so that we can help them to be the best they can be and to thrive.
So whether it is lobbying government on issues affecting our sector, to continuing to support members put on the best shows in their community, NODA is here for amateur theatre at every stage.
NODA membership at a glance
Where can I find information?
Visit the NODA website at noda.org.uk
Our site is packed with useful resources to make things simpler for you!
Simply log into your NODA member account to access a variety of online tools, upload your upcoming events, and explore what’s happening in your local area.
Who can I contact for support?
Our friendly team is here to help with everything from child licensing and safeguarding to group governance. Many of our staff are involved in amateur theatre themselves, so they’ve encountered a wide range of situations.
You can reach NODA Head Office during office hours at 01733 374 790.
For legal support, simply email your query with as much detail as possible to info@noda.org.uk.
What support is available in my area?
Your regional representative is your first point of contact, and you can find their details in the letter included with this pack.
To invite your representative to your next production, just send them an email with as much notice as possible.
Your rep is backed by a full regional committee, including a youth coordinator who is available to assist with any specific youth-related queries in your area.
Keeping up to date
Stay updated on all things NODA and the wider world of amateur theatre. NODA Today, our national magazine, is mailed out three times a year and is also available on our website. We’re always on the lookout for great stories, so feel free to share yours!
Encourage your members to join our mailing list for the latest updates, from discounted West End tickets to important news. Sign up directly on our website homepage.
Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook and Instagram and encourage others to do the same!
NODA events
NODA hosts a variety of events throughout the year. Each region organises its own Annual General Meeting (AGM) alongside a regional event. Some regions host a gala dinner with performance awards, while others offer weekend-long events featuring workshops and performances. Your local representative can provide further details on what’s happening near you.
Additionally, a national gala weekend is held annually in a different region to celebrate the inauguration of the incoming NODA President. For updates and more information, be sure to check our website
Regional and national training
Regions periodically host training sessions covering various aspects of theatre, such as performance, backstage, or businessrelated skills. For specific information on upcoming training opportunities, reach out to your local representative.
Each year, NODA holds a Theatre Summer School, a week long residential, for adults who want to learn and improve their acting, singing, drama or technical skills with regard to amateur theatre. More details can be found on page 14.
NODA Insurance Services are part of the Lloyd & Whyte Group which deliver a wide range of quality insurance services. Most notably we arrange a comprehensive Theatre Group Insurance policy.
We have worked with NODA for over 20 years, developing our experience in dealing with amateur theatre and enabling us to arrange specialist policies.
Our ethos is simple and based on the delivery of quality, tailored products and a commitment to provide you with an exemplary service.
Finding suitable insurance for amateur dramatics can be difficult enough, so it is good to know that you can turn to someone who understands your specific needs and can deliver the solution you have been looking for.
Group insurance
Proudly part of the Benefact Group
We are proud to be part of the Benefact Groupa charity owned, international family of financial services companies that give all available profits to charity and good causes.
We’re built on the idea that better business, can better lives.
Each business in our group is a specialist in its field. We’re united by a shared ambition to have a lasting positive impact on the communities we support, which has made us the third largest corporate donor in the UK.
Since 2022, over £1 million has been given annually to charities, not-for-profit organisations and community interest companies in Benefact Group’s Movement for Good Awards. Movement for Good is our annual programme of giving that anyone can get involved in.
Having reliable people backstage makes life easier onstage. The same goes for your insurance.
Having reliable insurance from a company you trust means you can concentrate on putting on a great show.
Our combined package has been developed in conjunction with NODA to bring you a specifically tailored policy to meet your needs.
Property Cover
For your scenery, costumes, lighting and sound equipment that you hire in.
Money
Covers accidental and physical loss of money either from the production venue, at a member's house or in transit.
Personal Accident
Covers accidents for up to 45 members or volunteer helpers (more if needed).
Abandonment
Covers reasonable costs and expenses if you have to abandon a production due to circumstances outside of your control.
Public Liability
For accidental injury involving members of the public and damage to their property.
Employers' Liability
For members of the group, whether employed contractually or participating in voluntary work.
Management insurance
Health and safety investigations, libel and litigation, scandal and lawsuits.
When seeking someone to blame, it is often the people with responsibility who are held accountable. If accused, it is up to you to defend yourself and cover the associated costs.
This policy is designed to provide appropriate legal defence should a member of your group’s committee be personally accused. With this type of cover, the individuals personal assets are then protected.
Committee Liability
Provides personal indemnity for your past, present and future committee members should the following investigations take place or fines be issued for:
• Actual or alleged wrongful acts
• Wrongful employment acts e.g. discrimination or harassment
• Legal representation costs
• Civil fines and penalties
• Former committee members - 72 month discovery period
• Emergency cost and expenses
Charity Liability
The group will be indemnified for:
• Emergency costs and expenses
• Social media public relations consultancy fees
Legal advice
Get legal support for your committee – provided by Rradar (legal services partner).
• 24/7 helpline
• Advice on all regulators and authorising bodies such as Health and Safety Executive, local authorities, Environment Agency, HMRC and the police
• Downloadable legal and regulatory advice, support guides, letters and templates
• Access to online tutorial videos, webinars, podcasts and digital newsletters
Working with young people?
Young people are one of our top priorities, which is why we have a youth coordinator in every region, as well as a fully trained head office team specialising in youth theatre. They are your main point of contact for questions about current legislation, safeguarding and local social issues. We also provide useful online resources, run DBS checks and promote local youth events. Let us help you put young people at the heart of your work.
Regional youth coordinators
Every region has its own youth coordinator, whose role is to support you with day-to-day queries. You can invite them, along with your regional representative, to your rehearsals and performances. Let them know about any exciting projects you have coming up – we are always looking for youth-related articles for NODA Today.
DBS checks
Ensure someone is suitable to volunteer with you by using the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS). As an umbrella organisation for DBS, we can run a variety of checks for our members. For volunteers, the fee is £20 per check.
Call us to learn more about DBS checks: 01733 374 790.
Online resources
We’ve developed helpful online resources for anyone working with young people, covering everything from safeguarding policies to explanations of child licensing.
NODA has partnered with the National Association of Youth Theatre to expand our support for youth theatre groups.
Visit our website to access all these resources.
Need support?
Our friendly head office team is trained in youth theatre and safeguarding and is available to discuss any concerns or questions you may have.
If you believe you or a child is in immediate danger and need urgent assistance, call the police immediately on 999.
Looking for training?
The NSPCC offers online safeguarding training. Specific courses are available for chaperones, designated safeguarding leads and trustees.
Organisations like MHFA England provide mental health first aid training, with courses available for working with both adults and children.
Looking for something more specific? Contact the NODA Head Office team for further assistance.
Long service awards
NODA offers a superb and totally exclusive range of medals, bars, badges and certificates for your group to present to members, to show appreciation and to commemorate their years of service to amateur theatre.
What can I apply for?
From badges to medals, there is something for all budgets. Show off your long service with the 25 year long service medal. You can add a silver bar for every 5 years additional service up to 50 years, when you will be entitled to the 50 year gold bar and, at 60 years’ service, the exclusive diamond bar. If you wanted something a bit less formal, then the long service badges fit the bill. A different badge for every 5 years of service.
Who can apply?
The awards are intended for those who, week after week, attend rehearsals or spend many hours backstage, or on administrative work, and whose services are essential/indispensable to putting on shows. ‘Occasional’ service, e.g. just for a show week itself, does not qualify and generalised descriptions of duties such as backstage, F.O.H, programmes, tickets, committee, officer or helper are insufficient. The grant of life membership of a group is NOT a qualification for a NODA Award, nor is any status which can be achieved by merely paying a subscription - such as ‘Patron’, ‘Associate’ or ‘Hon. Member’. Receipt of any remuneration - but not refund of actual accountable expensesdisqualifies, and for this purpose, remuneration includes gifts above a nominal value. Payment for services to amateur theatre other than to the sponsoring groups, however, does not preclude the person from being given an award.
We appreciate that some groups cannot afford, or are not allowed, due to their constitution, to purchase awards for members. Whilst the applications will need to be made by the group, the individual is able to pay for the award themselves (or indeed someone else in the group).
How do I apply?
If you are a member of a group, the group will have to apply on your behalf. This can be done via our online application portal or by hard copy form. If you are a NODA individual or joint member, you will be able to apply directly for your award via the online application portal or by hard copy form.
What if I don’t qualify?
Those who do not qualify for one of the long service awards, may be entitled to wear the NODA Commendation Award especially if they are in receipt of remuneration, or do not serve amateur theatre on a weekly basis. Please note - 10 years minimum service to amateur theatre is required before a nominee can be considered for this award.
When does my service start?
Service starts from your first amateur/school show and from any age.
I have had several years out, how do I work out my service?
Your service does not have to be continuous, but you can only include the years you have been active. The only exception to this rule is the years your group was not active due to COVID-19.
I have performed with other groups, do those years count?
As long as your current group is a member of NODA or you are an individual member of NODA, you can include your service with another group as long as your current group is happy to confirm that service on your application form.
Scan the QR code to apply for your awards online
NODA Theatre Summer School
What is NODA Summer School?
It’s a one week shared learning environment for adults who want to learn and improve their acting, singing, drama or technical skills with regard to amateur theatre.
What level of pre-course skill or experience do I need?
In most cases, no experience at all. Some courses do require some pre-course preparation, but most simply need you to come prepared to work hard with a group of people in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere.
What is included?
• A full week of professional training from the best in the business.
• Quality professional training with real, lasting benefits to performers, directors and technicians alike.
• Fully residential experience in a purpose built training centre.
• An opportunity to meet and socialise with like-minded people who are ‘passionate about theatre’.
Where and when is it held?
The school is held at Yarnfield Park, Stone, Staffordshire. The dates will vary each year, so check the NODA website for the confirmed dates.
Is it all work and no play?
Not at all. The social side is as important as the sessions themselves. The courses are designed to be educational but also fun. Then after classes, there are social events arranged on 4 nights with additional alternative taster sessions on the 2 other nights. However, you will find there are many student-arranged, ‘not timetabled’, after school events. These can often be the most fun of all, but be prepared for these to happen late at night.
Is there financial help available?
Yes, there is. You can apply separately for financial assistance once your booking has been accepted. The bursary application has to be submitted no later than mid January.
What sort of courses are available?
Each year, a new set of courses are curated to meet the needs of amateur groups. Courses in the past have included musical theatre, dance, acting, technical theatre, physical theatre, mask making, film and promotional film making and many more!
The course information goes live at least 1 month before booking opens on 1st December each year. Make sure you follow the NODA Theatre Summer School social media pages to keep up to date with all of the latest info and teasers!
Nearly 200 quality scripts with new scripts added regularly
Modern, something different or past masters - there is something for everyone!
Digital scripts available with every title
Flexible licence options
Free digital perusals
Whether
you are
looking for something traditional like Jack and the Beanstalk or Cinderella, or something a bit different like The King's New Clothes or Sherlock Holmes there is something for every group
Programme and Poster Competition
NODA’s annual Programme and Poster Competition is a very popular competition for groups and highlights the promotion of amateur theatre in the UK. Its purpose is to encourage high standards in programme and poster design.
Each region holds their own competition, using the criteria set out below, with the winning entries then put forward to the national competition. Trophies for the winners and runners up of the national competition are currently then awarded at the NODA Annual General Meeting.
Criteria for judging 2025 - 2028 programme and poster competition entries
Please note that these criteria apply to entries for shows between 1st January and 31st December (1st July to 30th June in Scotland) in each of these years and come into effect 1st January 2025 (1st July 2024 for Scotland).
It is important to note that it is a condition of entry for all programmes and posters that:
• the new official NODA logo with the strapline ‘For every stage’ is included in programmes and on posters. Use of the old logo and the strapline ‘Be inspired by amateur theatre’ will result in disqualification.
• ‘An introduction to NODA’ is also to be included in programmes. Use of any other version of ‘An introduction to NODA’ will result in disqualification.
The name of the various classes of programme and posters are taken from the trophies which are awarded to that particular class of entry.
NODA has made available various colours of the logo to suit individual programme and poster designs. If a non-NODA colour is used, this will result in disqualification.
The ‘Introduction to NODA’ is supplied in various sizes and formats to suit different programme designs. If you decide to use just the NODA supplied text, this text must not be altered and any changes will result in disqualification.
To enter your programme or poster, simply give your regional representative five copies when they review your show, or send them to your regional councillor before the end of the competition year.
The current versions of the logo and the ‘Introduction to NODA’ (to fit all styles of media) can be found as downloads on the Programme and Poster Competition page on the NODA website.
Scan the QR code to download the full competition rules and logos
Whether you are staging a musical, an opera, a play, a concert or a pantomime, as the UK’s leading amateur theatre membership organisation, NODA is here for ever y show, ever y rehearsal, ever y curtain call – here for our members ever y step of the way.
From just star ting out to centre stage; village halls to professional venues; NODA exists to celebrate, connect, support and amplif y amateur theatre and theatre groups across the UK
We provide invaluable services, expe rtise and resources which help thousands of our member groups create and produce theatre that enhances lives and benefits communities ever ywhere
Whatever your passion, level of experience or stage of life, we are here to help ever yone enjoy the unique benefits, opportunities and sense of communit y that live performance can bring. NO DA For ever y stage noda.org.u
Frequently asked questions
How do I get a show report?
Your first point of contact is your regional representative. Their contact details can be found on your welcome letter.
If you have a show coming up, drop them an email (with as much notice as possible) with all the details of your show. Generally, two tickets will be required for your event as well as a programme if available. If the representative is unable to attend, every effort will be made to find an alternative representative from the region to attend, however, this is not always possible.
How do we apply for long service awards?
There are two ways of applying for awards. The first, is via the NODA website, simply log in to your member's account and head to the awards' page. Secondly, you can download a hard copy form and post it to your regional awards' secretary.
Can we post our shows onto the NODA website?
Yes! Simply log into your member account and add your show. Once added, your event will show on the What’s On section on the website.
Can I advertise my show elsewhere?
Each region has it’s own Facebook page and/or group. Simply search on Facebook for your region and follow the page. For us to be able to post your show, you must also have included it on the NODA website.
When will my membership renew?
For groups, your membership year runs from the 1st April to 31st March. At the end of February, you will receive an email asking you to renew. This can be done by simply logging into your member account.
For individual/joint members and schools, colleges and universities, membership is on a rolling basis. One month prior to your expiry, you will receive notification by email.
We have an issue within our group, can NODA intervene?
Unfortunately, NODA is not a governing body, so have no power over groups and members. NODA can offer advice on dealing with situations as well as providing legal support if required.
There are a number of online resources that can be downloaded from the NODA website that can be put in place to help navigate certain situations.
