Merry Widow cast prepare for opening night

This will be the tenth year the Society has staged their Spring show in the Island Hall and to mark the special occasion they decided to produce Franz Lehar’s ever popular work.

The Merry Widow is considered by many to be the perfect show, with its wonderful score and blend of comedy, drama and dance, including the energetic Can-Can like showstopper.

In this production Vivian Shepherd takes on the title role of Anna, while Andrew Scott takes on the challenging principal role of Danilo.

Claire Campbell will be Valencienne, following in the footsteps of her mother Heather who has previously played the role for the company. Gareth Brown will star as Camile, while Tim Pentland and Colin Gregg enjoy the roles of unlikely suitors for the hand of the Merry Widow.

Company stalwarts, including Roy McIlwrath and Michael Blair will also be returning to the stage, taking on the roles of Njegus and Baron Zeta.

“There is definitely something for everyone in the show, and particularly for fans of musical theatre,” explained Vivian, who is taking on the title role. “There is comedy. music, dancing girls and even some drama as well.

“In a lot of musicals the story takes second place to the production numbers but that isn’t the case with The Merry Widow,” she continued. “The story is strong enough to stand on its own as a play. The music and dancing adds even more to the show.”

Vivian, who has been a member of Lisnagarvey Operatic for fourteen years and has taken on a variety of roles over the years, is thoroughly enjoying playing ‘The Merry Widow’.

“I very much enjoy my role,” she said. “It is challenging but it is a good role for somebody a bit older. I have done a lot of parts over the years, from chorus and small character parts to leading roles, but, if everything goes well, I think this will be my favourite role.”

‘The Merry Widow’ will be staged at the Island Hall in Lisburn from April 12-16, with performances each evening at 7.30pm.

Lisnagarvey Operatic productions are always a favourite with local audiences and tickets for The Merry Widow are sure to be popular. They are on sale from the Box Office on 9250 9254.