A century-old amateur dramatics society which feared it would never return to the big stage is set to take a bow at The Orchard tomorrow.

Dartford Amateur Operatic and Dramatic Society (DAODS) had staged at least two shows a year at the theatre since 1982 but made the difficult decision to leave in 2013.

But now they’re back with the musical Half a Sixpence, which starts tomorrow night (October 22) and runs until Saturday (October 25).

Society chairman Dave Hughes said: “We absolutely didn’t want to take a break from performing on such a big stage but, with productions costing up to £40,000 a show, the reality was that we just couldn’t afford to continue with two shows per year.

“There was a time when we weren’t sure if we would ever be able to return to the Orchard, but after a really successful year we're now looking forward to going back there in October with Half a Sixpence.

“We’ve also already booked our slot for 2015, and we’re now selecting what that show will be.”

Half a Sixpence will see a cast of more than 50 take to the stage for the musical that was originally designed as a vehicle for Tommy Steele and includes the songs Half a Sixpence, Normal Working Day and Crash, Bang, Wallop.

Go to orchardtheatre.com or call 01322 220000.