Did you know that this is not the first time that Heathdale has put on The Sound of Music? Our original production of it was performed in 1997! Before the curtain lifts on this year's performance, which will be kicking off tomorrow morning, someone who has been in the shoes of our current cast has generously shared about their experience in The Sound of Music. Meet Joylee Kilpatrick (Loftis), one of two actresses who played Maria in our 1997 show!
1. Do you recall your first time watching film version of The Sound of Music? Was that your first introduction to the musical?
I don’t specifically remember the first time I watched the movie but I remember that I always loved it! It was a special favourite of my grandparents and they bought me my own copy for my birthday one year.
2. What is your favourite memory from preparing for the 1997 musical?
My favourite memory happened during one of the performances. I had been singing so much my voice was almost gone. One of my songs finished as I was walking off stage and I normally sang the final notes in the wings, but during this performance I just let my voice trail off once I was off stage. I was told later that my youngest brother, who was six at the time, stood up in the audience and loudly sang the end of the phrase to make sure the song was completed! I guess he heard me practicing so much he knew it off by heart and just had to see it through.
3. What was the best part about performing The Sound of Music?
I really enjoyed everything about doing musicals during my time at Heathdale, but I think my favourite thing was all of the fun the cast had backstage before, during and after the shows! So many wonderful memories and life-long friendships were made.
4. Describe your experience as Maria!
I LOVED playing the part of Maria. It was my first lead role in a musical and was a dream one to play! So many fun songs and such a great cast. It was especially fun playing across from one of my best friends, Boyd, who played the role of the Captain. We are still friends today and laugh about the absurdity of our “fake kiss” on stage.
5. Do you have any advice for this year's cast who are performing?
The best advice I can give to this years cast is to soak up and enjoy every moment. Don’t let little mistakes affect you. Shake it off and focus on your next line or song or scene. You have waited so long for this and worked so hard you deserve to have the best time! I can’t wait to see it!
6. What are three of your favourite things?
I love baking and Christmas and… musical theatre, of course!
Tickets are still available for this year's production of The Sound of Music, starting from tomorrow and running until Saturday night. Book your tickets online today to avoid missing out!