Interview: Actress Kirsty Findlay on THE SOUND OF MUSIC at Pitlochry Festival Theatre
The Pitlochry Festival Theatre team are gearing up for their new festive production of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s classic musical The Sound of Music. We spoke to Olivier Award nominee Kirsty Findlay who will be playing the lead role of Maria in the show.
How does it feel to be taking on such an iconic role in such an iconic musical?
It’s so exciting to be taking on the role of Maria. She has such an infectious zest for life and I can’t wait to tell this story. She can’t help being exactly who she is and she loves to help others experience the joy that the world has to offer - it’s such a beautiful quality to have.
Tell us a little bit about your Maria. How are you finding putting your own stamp on the role?
I’m really enjoying finding what my Maria feels like. There’s a lot to her and I like getting into all the nooks and crannies of who she is. It’s still early days but I’m really excited by the process.
The score is so beloved and well known. Is there a particular song you're most looking forward to performing?
It’s so hard to choose but at the minute I would say ‘The Sound of Music’. Being in rehearsals and hearing our incredible actor-musicians play the instrumental for it is just so beautiful - I keep getting shivers and I can’t wait to put it in front of an audience.
What was your first encounter with The Sound of Music?
My mum is a big musical fan so growing up in our house, there was usually some kind of musical film or soundtrack going on in the background and The Sound of Music was definitely one of the regulars. My mum actually played Liesl in an am-dram production when she was a teenager so she was chuffed when I told her I’d be playing Maria.
What has been the highlight of your career to date and what are some of your future aspirations?
I take something away from every show I’ve been a part of so it’s hard to pick just one. This year though, I had the incredible opportunity to play Carole King in Beautiful at Pitlochry Festival Theatre and it was one of the best experiences I’ve ever had in a theatre for so many reasons. It was one of those situations where it felt like the stars aligned. Being cast in Beautiful and The Sound of Music back-to-back is an absolute dream and if my career could continue like that, I’d be a very happy woman.
How does it feel to be a part of Elizabeth Newman's final production at Pitlochry Festival Theatre before she moves to Sheffield?
Before The Sound of Music, I hadn’t had the opportunity to work with Elizabeth in her role as a director so I’m glad it’s finally happening! She’s such an incredible human and I love exploring this show with her. It’s going to be really special and hopefully a lovely way for Elizabeth to head off to pastures new.
Why is The Sound of Music the perfect show for this Christmas season?
Whether through music, human connection or raindrops on roses, the show encourages people to find joy in the smallest of places. For me, the Christmas season is about connection with the world and the people around you and I think this show really captures that. The Sound of Music has a lot of joy in it but it is also a great reminder for people that even in difficult times, there is still good in the world - you just have to be open to seeing it.