Lisburn is alive with the ‘Sound of Music’

The show, which tells the timeless story of nun Maria and her emotional journey to be accepted by the Von Trapp children and to, finally, find love with their father, Captain Von Trapp, is brought to the stage by the Lisburn company, who are renowned for their fabulous productions over the years.

Gillian McQuade, who has been a member of Lisnagarvey since she was a child, is stepping into the role of Maria and will be joined on stage by her lifelong friend Tim Pentland, who will bring Captain Von Trapp back to life.

They are supported by a fantastic cast of children, as well as company stalwarts, including Heather Campell as the Mother Abbess.

The show will be directed by the well-known Wilfie Pyper and his son Simon will be bringing some comedic relief in the role of Uncle Max.

“We auditioned in October so that as soon as Christmas was over we could start rehearsing,” explained Gillian. “It is really starting to come together now. It is very difficult and it is a huge show, I think it is the biggest show I have ever done.”

Gillian said she has been very impressed with the younger members of the cast as well, who have been working hard to perfect their performances as the Von Trapp children. “The kids have a lot to so,” continued Gillian. “They have a lot of lines and are very involved. We have been really impressed with the kids.”

Gillian admits she feels a lot of pressure to do justice to the role made famous by Julie Andrews. Despite the pressure, Gillian and Tim feel the rehearsals have been going well and are confident that by opening night the show will be fantastic.

“This is the first time I have ever been in a show with a full run without script a month before the opening night,” she explained.

The cast are all a very close-knit family and the years of friendship amongst the principals shines through. “Tim is obviously fabulous to work with,” continued Gillian. “We have known each other for 30 years but we have never played opposite each other before.”

Local audiences are certain to be thrilled by the latest offering from the award-winning company and Tim is keen to encourage families to come along and see the show. “Kids and parents will both love it,” he said. “Everyone grows up with The Sound of Music and for Lisburn audiences this production will be a first.

“Tickets are selling really well so anyone who wants to see the show needs to book their tickets soon,” he added.

The Sound of Music runs at the Island Hall in Lisburn from Tuesday April 24 until Saturday April 28 at 7.45pm. Tickets, priced from £12, are on sale now from the Box Office on 9250 9254.