Meet the man bringing The Sound of Music to a very unique Belfast setting
"This isn't just a show - it's an experience."
By day, Gary Redpath is a civil servant, but once 5pm hits, you'll find him rehearsing lines, or bringing big creative visions to life as a director with Belfast Operatic Company (BOC) - a group he fondly calls his "theatre family."
As the company celebrates its 65th anniversary, Gary finds himself at the helm of one of its most ambitious productions yet: an immersive staging of The Sound of Music inside the stunning surroundings of St Anne's Cathedral. And for a man just as at home performing in the spotlight as guiding others through it, this project is a perfect blend of passion, purpose, and personal pride.
Having been a member of Belfast Operatic Company (BOC) for over 15 years, Gary has worn many hats on and off the stage. But this summer, he steps into the spotlight as the visionary director behind a bold and immersive production of Rodgers and Hammerstein's beloved musical.
And there's nothing ordinary about this version. "We're staging The Sound of Music in the breath-taking setting of St Anne's Cathedral," Gary says, eyes lighting up. "This isn't just a show - it's an experience."
BOC is known throughout Northern Ireland and beyond for setting the bar in amateur theatre. Celebrating its 65th year, the company has long been a trailblazer, known for ambitious productions that push creative boundaries. "To be directing this anniversary production is a huge honour," Gary reflects.
"It's a chance to give our audiences something truly unforgettable and to pay tribute to the company's incredible legacy. Personally, it's very meaningful to me - I've built some of my best memories with this company, and now I'm helping others create theirs."
Sixty years after its debut, The Sound of Music continues to resonate with audiences of all ages. Why? Gary believes it's the perfect blend of heart, hope, and history. "It's a timeless love story, of course," he explains, "but it's also deeply political. At its core, it's about a family being displaced by war - something heartbreakingly relevant in today's world."
Gary is quick to credit Rodgers and Hammerstein with crafting socially conscious musicals that pushed boundaries in their time. "Their work still speaks volumes. And we are embracing that depth, this musical is more than just a love story with an epic score." Staging a full-scale musical in a cathedral is no easy feat, but for Gary, it was an inspired choice. "I've always been drawn to unconventional spaces," he says.
"And after the success of Les Misérables, which saw us team up with other theatre companies to be the first in the UK to bring the production of Les Mis, Let the People Sing to the stage, we wanted something equally exciting for our members. St Anne's Cathedral gives us a chance to tell the story in a space that enhances its spiritual and emotional depth." The cathedral setting, with its towering columns, stained glass, and incredible acoustics - lends itself naturally to scenes set in Nonnberg Abbey. But the venue also invites a different kind of storytelling.
"We're making the space part of the production," Gary says. "The audience won't just watch the show - they'll feel enveloped by it." Of course, bringing a Broadway-style production into a working place of worship requires adaptability. "The team at the cathedral has been wonderfully supportive," Gary notes, "but it's still a sacred space with regular services. That means no big sets or traditional wings. We have to rely more on the actors and the story - and that's a good thing." Simplicity becomes a strength. "It's about stripping things back to what really matters: the characters, the music, and the message."
At the heart of show is the cast, especially the 12 young performers sharing the iconic roles of the Von Trapp children. "We had over 200 children audition, and the talent was phenomenal," Gary says. "They've brought so much energy and professionalism. I haven't directed children in this way before, but they've made it a joy."
The show features two alternating casts of Von Trapp children and two actors playing Maria, allowing more performers to take part - and building flexibility into a challenging schedule. "Our Marias - Hannah Russell and Anna Maria Boyle - are both incredible and have a beautiful rapport with the children," Gary adds.
"And our Captain von Trapp, Samuel, brings real depth to the role. It's been wonderful watching the chemistry develop." Gary is no stranger to unique theatrical formats. He previously directed an immersive dinner theatre version of The Great Gatsby at the Hilton Belfast and a movie-themed jukebox musical at The MAC. But The Sound of Music is in a class of its own. "It's a bigger cast - around 50 people - and much more emotionally layered," he explains.
"But everything I've learned from past productions has helped shape this one. The key is trusting your team and creating something collaborative." BOC's most recent success - Les Misérables: Let the People Sing - was a UK-first, entirely sold out, and set a new benchmark for what amateur theatre can achieve. "Les Mis was monumental," Gary says.
"And there's definitely pressure to follow that. But The Sound of Music is equally iconic - it brings its own expectations and its own magic. If anything, Les Mis taught us to be brave. To trust our audience, and each other." Which moments is Gary most excited for?
"The nuns' chorus is going to sound absolutely breath-taking in the cathedral," he says. "And the children - they'll steal the show. I think the audience is going to fall in love with them, just like Maria does."
Even the most devoted fans of the 1965 film may find something new in this production. "Most people know the film inside out," Gary acknowledges. "But the stage musical came first, and it's actually more political. It has stronger female characters - particularly Maria and Liesl - and a more serious tone in places. I think audiences will leave with a deeper understanding and new appreciation."
Gary's ultimate hope? That people leave uplifted, entertained - and thoughtful. "There's a real message here about courage, compassion, and standing up for what's right. I want the audience to walk out humming the tunes, yes - but also reflecting on what it means to stay true to your values, no matter the cost."