Leeds is alive with The Sound of Music
Leeds is alive with The Sound of Music this summer as Opera North presents their glorious version of the classic musical from Thu 9 July – Sat 1 August. We spoke to Katie Bird (Maria) and Edward Bennett (Captain von Trapp) about starring in this beloved production.
Written by Katie Bird and Edward Bennett
About Katie and Edward
You both come from different performing backgrounds. Please could you introduce yourselves and tell us about them?
Katie: My name is Katie Bird. I’m a lyric operatic soprano so my background is mainly in opera. I’m a member of the Chorus of Opera North and I’ll be singing Maria in The Sound of Music.
Edward: I’m Edward Bennett and I’m taking on the role of Captain von Trapp. My career has been mostly in theatre with some TV and a few films. Theatre and plays were always my first love, and Shakespeare especially. I come from a rural background in the Midlands. I lived in a small village and had a wonderful upbringing with horses and dogs, etc. I consider myself very lucky that I had that space and freedom when I was a child.
What have been some career highlights?
Katie: I genuinely feel very lucky to have been able to forge a career in the music industry, especially right now when creative arts are on their knees funding wise. My career highlights so far have been being given the chance to sing all my dream roles I studied as a student – but the icing on the cake has been being able to sing my two dream roles in musical theatre: Eliza Doolittle in My Fair Lady and now Maria von Trapp. Which just leaves Nancy in Oliver!
Edward: For me, it’s been working at the RSC and for Peter Hall, Michael Grandage and Sam Mendes. Also, playing Alan Turing and producing my own work.
Katie Bird as Maria and Lucas as Kurt. The Sound of Music Rehearsal. Credit Steffi Njoya.
Edward Bennett as Captain von Trapp. The Sound of Music in rehearsal. Credit Steffi Njoya.
What inspired you to become a performer and what was your way into the industry?
Katie: Definitely my drama teacher at school, Mrs. Coombes. I loved storytelling and losing myself in different characters.
Edward: I got into acting thanks to my drama teacher, Mr. Penhale, when I moved schools at 14 years old to Chipping Campden. He took us to see The Cherry Orchard at the RSC with Penelope Wilton and David Troughton and it totally blew my mind.
What drew you to Opera North’s production of The Sound of Music?
Katie: As a full-time member of the Chorus of Opera North, it was just a matter of working hard for the audition!
Edward: Opera North is a renowned company and one which I have heard such amazing things about, so I jumped at the chance to work with them. Never having done a musical before, why not start with arguably the most famous one?!
Opera North’s The Sound of Music
What are your memories of The Sound of Music?
Katie: Sitting around at Christmas with family, warm and cosy, singing along to the songs – and falling in love with the way that Julie Andrews sings.
Edward: I’ve never seen The Sound of Music live but I have seen the film recently with my 8-year-old daughter. AMAZING!
What’s it like to bring such an iconic character to life?
Katie: Quite scary! And a huge honour. It’s a big ask trying to find a way of playing the part anywhere near as well as Julie Andrews managed!
Edward: Attempting to bring von Trapp to life is daunting. He’s a wonderfully drawn character and Plummer did him beautifully, I thought. There is a lot going on – a lot to love, to work to forgive and to admire. The best roles are those that feel perpetually just out of reach. I didn’t think this would, but it might!
Katie Bird as Maria and Edward Bennett as Captain von Trapp. The Sound of Music in rehearsal. Credit Steffi Njoya.
The cast of the Sound of Music. Credit Steffi Njoya.
Please tell us about this version of The Sound of Music. What’s it like and what can audiences expect?
Katie: There is a really strong undercurrent of darkness with the very real threat of Nazi Germany, but also a broken home crushed by grief and loss. Set against that is the joy Maria brings to every situation – and her belief in the power of music to transform lives.
Edward: People can expect something authentic, full of love, passion, politics, grief, debate, humour, amazing singing, stunning musical talent all round – and a middle-aged bloke in a lovely outfit trying his best opposite Katie Bird who is simply incredible! We’re not shying away from the themes, resonances and undercurrent of this tale. I enjoy that immensely. Love can only shine as bright as it can in this world if shone against hatred.
Katie, as a member of the Opera North chorus, what’s it like to be performing The Sound of Music in Leeds?
Katie: Singing the part of Maria is a dream come true for me. I can’t wait for opening night to start sharing this amazing musical with an audience!
What is your dream role?
Katie and Edward: Our dream roles? We’re doing them now!
The Sound of Music at Leicester Curve. Henry Godber (Freidrich), Pheobe Dalton (Gretl), Jagoda Drozdz (Brigitta), Gracie Nkala (Louisa), Corey Lister (Kurt) and Dalia Al Nagar (Marta). Credit Marc Brenner.
The company of The Sound of Music at Leicester Curve. Credit Marc Brenner.
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The Sound of Music is at Leeds Grand Theatre from Thu 9 July – Sat 1 August 2026
Whether you’re indulging in a bit of nostalgia, creating brand new family memories or planning a sparkling summer evening at Leeds Grand Theatre with friends, The Sound of Music is pure joy that will stay with you long after the final note.
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