THE cast, crew and members of Studley Operatic Society’s West Side Story are swapping scripts for stubble this month in support of Movember.
It might be another five months until show week, but Studley Operatic Society’s (SOS) Jets and Sharks are already in fierce competition to see who can grow the best moustache.
SOS members are taking part in Movember with some members growing the traditional array of moustaches and others, whose facial hair does not quite cut it, completing the ‘Move for Movember’ challenge, taking on 60km of walking, running, rowing or cycling throughout November.
The scheme aims to raise awareness of men’s physical and mental health issues, including prostate cancer and suicide prevention.
The cause resonates deeply with the society following a recent local tragedy and personal connections among members to men affected by suicide and cancer.
Movember’s message is clear – 60 men die by suicide every hour worldwide – and the group hopes their efforts will spark conversations and reduce stigma.
They have already raised more than £230 for the cause, beating their initial target of £200 and hope to keep adding to this total for the rest of the month.
Director of West Side Story, and participant in the Movember Challenge, Kevin Hirons, said: “With a show full of testosterone-fuelled tension, gangs and brotherhood, it felt only right to channel that energy into supporting this vital men’s health cause.
“Whilst it’s a bit of fun, Movember is so much more than moustaches. It’s about conversations, awareness, and action.
“We’ve seen first-hand how men’s health issues can devastate families and communities so if growing a tash or clocking up some kilometres helps even one man feel less alone, it’s worth every step and every whisker.”
The group will be mamboing their way through Movember by sharing facts, stories and resources about men’s health on their social media channels.
Visit the website at uk.movember.com/mospace to donate to their fundraiser.
