Residents of Beccles and surrounding areas do not need to travel 100 miles to experience the delights of one of the very best of Handel’s Oratorios, because rehearsals are well underway for it’s performance at Beccles Choral Society’s Summer Picnic Concert at St Michael’s Church on Saturday 28th May, beginning at 6.30 pm. Bring-your-own-picnic, 7.30 pm to 8.30 pm.

First performed in 1747, it tells the true story of Judea being ruled by the Seluecid Empire from Syria in the period 170-160 BC and avowing to destroy the Jewish religion. Judas Maccabaeus succeeds his father as leader of the Jewish reaction to the Selluecids, leading to ultimate victory. It includes a number of well-known items such as ‘Sound an alarm’ and ‘See, the conquering hero comes’, and a number of equally delightful but possibly less well-known pieces.

The choir will be accompanied by a full orchestra, including well-loved local performers Ray Simmonds on Trumpet and Ian Baeurs on Bassoon, and four London based soloists including the welcome return of the outstanding Lowestoft-born Tenor, Nick Allen. Also performing will be a girls’ choir from Saint Felix’s School in Southwold, all directed by Beccles Choral Society’s Conductor, Philip Sims.

Tickets priced £10, (school children free!) are now available from Willows and Beccles Stationery Shop, any member of the Society or by post through phoning 01508 528560.

Further details on www.beccleschoralsociety.co.uk.