The sound of musical from Opera North

Opera North goes pop once again next year - with a production of Rodgers and Hammerstein's The Sound of Music.

The opera company that has embraced popular musicals over the years - with productions from Show Boat and Sweeney Todd to Into the Woods and Carousel, as well as My Fair Lady last summer with Leeds Playhouse - will perform the much-loved musical at Leeds Grand Theatre in 2026.

The production, based on Leicester Curve’s production (which opens in Leicester this November), will travel to Leeds next summer (July 9-August 1) with the Chorus and Orchestra of Opera North under the direction of Nikolai Foster, Curve's artistic director, with a principal cast yet to be selected.

The Sound of Music was an instant hit when it opened on Broadway in 1959. Six years later, the stage performance was followed by the multi-award-winning film starring Julie Andrews and Christopher Plummer. As is almost always the case with Rodgers and Hammerstein, the sugary surface lies on top of a darker story, in this case a novice nun struggling with her vows and channelling her faithfulness into caring for a soldier's large family, and the rise in Austria of the Nazis.

This tale of family, romance and rebellion features an incredible score, including Do-Re-Mi, My Favorite Things, Climb Every Mountain and its title number, The Sound of Music. 

Under 30s will be able to take advantage of £10 tickets, with £22 seats available through the Grand's Secret Seats scheme for anyone willing to sit anywhere in the auditorium. There will be several matinees and accessible performances across the run.

Opera North's general director Laura Canning said: “We are delighted to be bringing another musical classic to Leeds after the success of My Fair Lady at Leeds Playhouse last year. Hearing Rodgers and Hammerstein’s iconic score performed by the Orchestra of Opera North promises to be a truly special occasion.”

Tickets go on general sale from August 15.

More info and tickets here