The National Operatic & Dramatic Association (NODA) was founded in 1899 "to protect & advance the interests of Operatic & Dramatic Art, and of Societies engaged therein." It has a membership of some 2,300 amateur societies and 2,500 individual enthusiasts throughout the UK, staging musicals, operas, plays, concerts and pantomimes in a wide variety of performing venues, ranging from the country's leading professional theatres to village halls. Members have access to a wide range of benefits.

NODA aims:

• To give a shared voice to the amateur sector.
• To help amateur societies and individuals achieve the highest standards of best practice and performance.
• To provide leadership and advice to enable the amateur sector to tackle the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century.

NODA is divided into eleven areas, each headed by an area councillor who sits on the National Council (the ruling body of the Association), supported by a network of regional representatives. These volunteers are the vital link to the grass roots of the Association, the amateur theatre companies.

The Association is administered from a headquarters in Peterborough, with a knowledgeable and friendly staff able to deal with virtually any enquiry relating to amateur theatre. There is a broad spectrum of ages involved with amateur theatre nationwide, from a burgeoning number of youth groups to adult companies which meet the needs of all levels of both performers, whether dramatic or musical, and enthusiasts involved backstage, front of house or in administration.

The Potato Room Players win NODA trophies

In 2003 we were awarded a silver salver for our programme for the musical Jolson. This denotes first prize in the North East Programme Competition for NODA.

Later on the programme was submitted for the National Competition, and received first prize. The Potato Room Players was presented with the RTH Perkins trophy.