The Association was established in 1899 for the express purpose of bringing together individuals and members of amateur operatic and dramatic societies for their mutal assistance and combined benefit.

NODA is governed by a Council, comprising of an elected Councillor from each of the eleven major areas into which NODA divides the British Isles. Each Area is further covered by the Regional Representatives, who form an Area Committee under the Councillor. Thus NODA reaches out to provide a local and personal service wherever there is an amateur society.

NODA offers its members help and advice in every aspect of the theatre and the running of an amateur society. It publishes it's own magazine at both National and Area level. Every year NODA further encourages it's membership to further their own skills at a special Summer School covering a wide spectrum of stage skills. Societies are encouraged to recognise long service to the amateur theatre by its members with a range of badges and medals.