There are some shows so familiar, so deeply embedded in musical theatre history, that it’s hard to imagine them in a new light. The Sound of Music is certainly one of them — iconic songs, beloved characters, and a story that’s been told for over six decades. But Belfast Operatic Company’s latest production dares to reimagine it, not on a traditional stage, but in one of the most breathtaking venues in the city: St Anne’s Cathedral.
From the opening notes of the overture, played by a sublime 20-piece orchestra, it was clear this was not your average night at the theatre. The cathedral’s soaring ceilings and stained-glass windows provided an almost cinematic backdrop to the unfolding drama, with coloured lighting and flowing white drapes subtly transforming the space from abbey to mountaintop to mansion.
The cast was nothing short of excellent. Anna-Maria Boyle brought warmth and charm to the role of Maria, alternating performances, while Samuel Moore offered a dignified yet deeply human portrayal of Captain Von Trapp. The Von Trapp children who will be played by a rotating team of young talents — each of them confident, vocally strong, and utterly endearing.
Gary Redpath’s direction focused on intimacy and immersion. With the cast frequently moving through the audience, the show felt more like a shared story than a performance. And vocally, the production soared — from the energetic “Do-Re-Mi” to the tender “Edelweiss,” every number was beautifully sung, the acoustics of the cathedral lending a natural echo that felt almost divine.
But no review would be honest without noting the practicalities. The immersive staging, while impressive, came with some trade-offs: restricted views for some audience members and plastic chair seating that felt increasingly unforgiving during the nearly three-hour runtime. The lack of an elevated stage meant that some visual moments were lost — a shame, given how strong the performances were and the orchestra – I didn’t even know it existed until after.
Still, it’s hard to fault a production that dared to do something so bold. BOC’s decision to stage The Sound of Music in a cathedral was a gamble — but it paid off, creating something truly unique, atmospheric, and emotionally powerful.
And the venue? You ask whether it worked.
Let’s just say this: if you’re going to tell a story about faith, family, and finding your voice — where better to do it than in a cathedral that makes you believe in something greater?
Book your tickets now at belfastoperatic.org
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