CONNIE FISHER RETURNS TO HER CRITICALLY ACCLAIMED STARRING ROLE IN “THE SOUND OF MUSIC” AT THE LONDON PALLADIUM AND SIGNS THROUGH THE AUTUMN 2007

Connie Fisher has returned to her starring role as ‘Maria’ in “THE SOUND OF MUSIC” at the London Palladium, following her enforced medical absence of two weeks (from Monday 5 – Saturday 17 March). On her doctor’s instructions, however, she will now be playing six shows each week. From week commencing 26 March, Connie Fisher will not play the Monday evening or Wednesday matinee performances of “THE SOUND OF MUSIC”.

From mid April, these performances will be played by fellow “How Do You Solve a Problem Like Maria?” finalist Aoife Mulholland, currently starring as ‘Roxie Hart’ in the West End production of “Chicago” at the Cambridge Theatre (which she will continue to play until Saturday 31 March). Until that date, Sophie Bould will play ‘Maria’ for the performances that Connie Fisher will not be performing each week.

Andrew Lloyd Webber said, “I am thrilled that Connie has returned to the show, fit and well, and welcome Aoife, who gave a sensational audition”.

“THE SOUND OF MUSIC” currently stars Lesley Garrett as ‘Mother Abbess’ and Alexander Hanson as ‘Captain Von Trapp’. This production opened on 15 November 2006 to rave reviews and public acclaim, resulting in an overwhelming and unprecedented demand for tickets.

“THE SOUND OF MUSIC” has music by Richard Rodgers and lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II, with a book by Howard Lindsay and Russel Crouse, suggested by “The Trapp Family Singers” by Maria Augusta Trapp.

“THE SOUND OF MUSIC” is directed by Jeremy Sams, with choreography by Arlene Phillips, design by Robert Jones, sound by Mick Potter, lighting by Mark Henderson and musical supervision by Simon Lee.

“THE SOUND OF MUSIC” originally premiered on Broadway in 1959, when it won six Tony Awards, including “Best Musical”. The show first opened in London in 1961 and its last London revival was in 1981, both productions having record-breaking runs. The 1965 Hollywood film, which starred Julie Andrews and Christopher Plummer, won five Oscars, including “Best Picture”.

“THE SOUND OF MUSIC” is presented by Andrew Lloyd Webber and David Ian, The Really Useful Group and Live Nation.

21st March 2007