2024/2025: the sound of music
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Our 2024/5 production was the iconic, "Sound of Music". We loved staging this classic musical, including twelve von Trapp children for our two teams.
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Sound of Music production images from Jon Mulkeen, Abbie Evans and Kate Fitzpatrick
The Sound of Music – QMTS Theatre Review from BDTG
Queensbridge Musical Theatre Society brings a beloved classic joyfully to life.
QMTS’s latest show, The Sound of Music, was a true delight from start to finish. This classic musical about family, love, and courage was performed with warmth, heart, and a whole lot of talent. With beautiful songs and memorable moments, it had the audience smiling, laughing, and even wiping away the odd tear.
Taking on the role of Maria is no small challenge, but Emily Cottrell made it seem effortless. With her bright energy, natural humour and a voice that filled the theatre, she brought real joy to the stage. Her performance of “My Favourite Things” was a real crowd-pleaser, and she lit up every scene she was in.
But Let’s Talk About Those Kids… While Maria may be the lead, the Von Trapp children truly stole the show! Each one was full of character and charm—from cheeky Louisa to clever Brigitta. And little Gretl? Completely adorable. I saw ‘Team Schnitzel’ and had the pleasure of watching Sophie Stait (Louisa), Jamie Hoare (Friedrich), Daisy Abraham (Brigitta), Joey Ryder (Kurt), Poppy Abraham (Marta), and Ava Lewis-Woodend (Gretl). Each of them brought so much personality and joy to their roles.
A special mention for Lucy Abraham (Sister Margaretta), who not only performed beautifully herself but shared the stage with her daughters, Daisy and Poppy. QMTS often talks about being a family, and it’s clear that they really mean it. Captain Von Trapp, played by Ben Cuffin, gave a thoughtful and powerful performance, showing real depth as his character softened over time. His rendition of “Edelweiss”, performed while playing the guitar, was tender and moving—one of the show’s highlights.
I can’t mention everyone in this review, but I would like to highlight some standout moments:
The production team, led by Director Sabrina Sacco and Musical Director Stephen Greenway, pulled together something really special. Choreographer Billy Stait brought life and energy to the movement, while Craig Cattell (Production Manager), Emily Owens, and Ben Evans (Assistant PMs) kept everything running smoothly.
The set design was clever and efficient, using a raised walkway and staircase to create different locations, with props added to transform the space as needed. Lighting and costumes helped bring 1930s Austria to life with care and attention to detail.
Beautifully Directed and Musically Spot-On - The direction guided us seamlessly through the story—from playful, joyful scenes to moments of real tension as things took a darker turn. Scene transitions were smooth and natural, allowing the emotional moments to land. Vocally, the show was a triumph: strong solos, rich harmonies, and an orchestra that never missed a beat.
It was a Joy from Start to Finish - QMTS should be incredibly proud of this production. The Sound of Music is a big show with big expectations—and this cast and crew delivered something truly special. From its sparkling leads to its sweet ensemble moments, it was full of heart and beautifully done.
To the entire QMTS family: you really did make the hills come alive. So for now, it’s so long, farewell… but we’ll be back to see you again soon!
Queensbridge Musical Theatre Society brings a beloved classic joyfully to life.
QMTS’s latest show, The Sound of Music, was a true delight from start to finish. This classic musical about family, love, and courage was performed with warmth, heart, and a whole lot of talent. With beautiful songs and memorable moments, it had the audience smiling, laughing, and even wiping away the odd tear.
Taking on the role of Maria is no small challenge, but Emily Cottrell made it seem effortless. With her bright energy, natural humour and a voice that filled the theatre, she brought real joy to the stage. Her performance of “My Favourite Things” was a real crowd-pleaser, and she lit up every scene she was in.
But Let’s Talk About Those Kids… While Maria may be the lead, the Von Trapp children truly stole the show! Each one was full of character and charm—from cheeky Louisa to clever Brigitta. And little Gretl? Completely adorable. I saw ‘Team Schnitzel’ and had the pleasure of watching Sophie Stait (Louisa), Jamie Hoare (Friedrich), Daisy Abraham (Brigitta), Joey Ryder (Kurt), Poppy Abraham (Marta), and Ava Lewis-Woodend (Gretl). Each of them brought so much personality and joy to their roles.
A special mention for Lucy Abraham (Sister Margaretta), who not only performed beautifully herself but shared the stage with her daughters, Daisy and Poppy. QMTS often talks about being a family, and it’s clear that they really mean it. Captain Von Trapp, played by Ben Cuffin, gave a thoughtful and powerful performance, showing real depth as his character softened over time. His rendition of “Edelweiss”, performed while playing the guitar, was tender and moving—one of the show’s highlights.
I can’t mention everyone in this review, but I would like to highlight some standout moments:
- The nuns' chorus created atmosphere and balance, grounding the show in its spiritual core. QMTS show their quality with the opening scene, beautify sung with complex harmonies – the sisters in full effect.
- Mother Abbess’s soaring “Climb Every Mountain” was a showstopper—powerful and moving. Gilly Harris, take a bow. Clearly you’ve found your calling.
- Max Detweiler (Gareth Knipe) and Elsa Schraeder (Alex Stait) added flair and wit, delivering scenes with sharp timing and charm. Alex added more family to QMTS performing with her daughter (Louisa – see above).
- Liesl might be a ‘child’ well, 16 coming on 17, but Milly Owen was a real highlight. Singing and dancing while keeping the children in line. I really enjoyed your scene with Rolf (Gianluca Handy) you two did have chemistry. I think Liesl might have giggled when Rolf fell over a chair, but Milly kept it together, complete with a twinkle in her eye.
The production team, led by Director Sabrina Sacco and Musical Director Stephen Greenway, pulled together something really special. Choreographer Billy Stait brought life and energy to the movement, while Craig Cattell (Production Manager), Emily Owens, and Ben Evans (Assistant PMs) kept everything running smoothly.
The set design was clever and efficient, using a raised walkway and staircase to create different locations, with props added to transform the space as needed. Lighting and costumes helped bring 1930s Austria to life with care and attention to detail.
Beautifully Directed and Musically Spot-On - The direction guided us seamlessly through the story—from playful, joyful scenes to moments of real tension as things took a darker turn. Scene transitions were smooth and natural, allowing the emotional moments to land. Vocally, the show was a triumph: strong solos, rich harmonies, and an orchestra that never missed a beat.
It was a Joy from Start to Finish - QMTS should be incredibly proud of this production. The Sound of Music is a big show with big expectations—and this cast and crew delivered something truly special. From its sparkling leads to its sweet ensemble moments, it was full of heart and beautifully done.
To the entire QMTS family: you really did make the hills come alive. So for now, it’s so long, farewell… but we’ll be back to see you again soon!
2023/2024: disney's beauty and the beast
Our 2023/2024 production was the magical, 'tale as old as time' of Disney's Beauty and the Beast. We loved staging this extraordinary, enchanting fairytale and loved creating the 'household object' costumes in particular.
Beauty and the Beast production images from The Artrix and Jon Mulkeen
Review of Beauty and the Beast by 'Muddy Stilettos':
The Artrix, Bromsgrove, is delighted to host the fabulous Queensbridge Musical Theatre Society this week with their production of the Disney classic, Beauty and the Beast.
We had the pleasure to be there on opening night and were totally enchanted by what we saw. From the moment we walked in to the Artrix foyer, we were greeted by a beautiful array of decorations, and it was a lovely touch to be given a rose alongside the show programme. It is obvious that the crew have been working tirelessly on getting the set together – the settings are spectacular and breathe life into the show. The props, costumes, lighting and sound provide the perfect backdrop for the performance, giving a nod to the setting first created by Disney.
From start to finish, the play was sprinkled with Disney magic, to delight both the children and adults of the audience. The story stays true to the original version, focusing on Belle, so called because of her beauty, wishing for more from her life. Local stud, Gaston, wants to marry her, but she refuses, knowing it would not bring her happiness. When her father gets imprisoned in a castle by a scary ‘beast’, Belle sets off to save him and makes a deal with the beast that she will stay with him if he lets her father go. Much to her surprise, she realises that this horrendous monster is not a monster after all – but a loving and kind prince who was turned into the beast by a curse. Complete with memorable songs, lovable characters and an important message about beauty coming from within, it is obvious why theatre companies love to perform this timeless classic.
Directed by Jack Gregson, Queensbridge's version of Beauty and the Beast is jam-packed with a hugely talented cast. Both the acting and singing from the main parts down to the ensemble, were phenomenal, and it was clear that each member of the cast was a perfect choice for their roles. Belle is played by the beautiful Bethany Scott, who was enchanting to watch. Gaston is played by the charismatic Jon Mulkeen and the talent of the beast played by Ed Blann shone through. The stage dynamic between father and son team Billy and Paul Stait (playing Lumiere and Cogsworth respectively) is obvious with some great humour between the two characters. Stunning performances from Alex Stait in her role as Mrs Potts and Ruby Buckley/Joey Ryder as her lovable son Chip, plus plenty of sass brought by Emily Cottrell as Babette.
Don’t miss out on seeing this beautiful rendition of the timeless tale brought to life on the stage.
The Artrix, Bromsgrove, is delighted to host the fabulous Queensbridge Musical Theatre Society this week with their production of the Disney classic, Beauty and the Beast.
We had the pleasure to be there on opening night and were totally enchanted by what we saw. From the moment we walked in to the Artrix foyer, we were greeted by a beautiful array of decorations, and it was a lovely touch to be given a rose alongside the show programme. It is obvious that the crew have been working tirelessly on getting the set together – the settings are spectacular and breathe life into the show. The props, costumes, lighting and sound provide the perfect backdrop for the performance, giving a nod to the setting first created by Disney.
From start to finish, the play was sprinkled with Disney magic, to delight both the children and adults of the audience. The story stays true to the original version, focusing on Belle, so called because of her beauty, wishing for more from her life. Local stud, Gaston, wants to marry her, but she refuses, knowing it would not bring her happiness. When her father gets imprisoned in a castle by a scary ‘beast’, Belle sets off to save him and makes a deal with the beast that she will stay with him if he lets her father go. Much to her surprise, she realises that this horrendous monster is not a monster after all – but a loving and kind prince who was turned into the beast by a curse. Complete with memorable songs, lovable characters and an important message about beauty coming from within, it is obvious why theatre companies love to perform this timeless classic.
Directed by Jack Gregson, Queensbridge's version of Beauty and the Beast is jam-packed with a hugely talented cast. Both the acting and singing from the main parts down to the ensemble, were phenomenal, and it was clear that each member of the cast was a perfect choice for their roles. Belle is played by the beautiful Bethany Scott, who was enchanting to watch. Gaston is played by the charismatic Jon Mulkeen and the talent of the beast played by Ed Blann shone through. The stage dynamic between father and son team Billy and Paul Stait (playing Lumiere and Cogsworth respectively) is obvious with some great humour between the two characters. Stunning performances from Alex Stait in her role as Mrs Potts and Ruby Buckley/Joey Ryder as her lovable son Chip, plus plenty of sass brought by Emily Cottrell as Babette.
Don’t miss out on seeing this beautiful rendition of the timeless tale brought to life on the stage.
Review of Beauty and the Beast by 'NODA':
Queensbridge Musical Theatre Society
Disney’s Beauty and the Beast
Director: Jack Gregson
Musical Director: Oscar Cooper-Spriggs
Choreographer: Evangeline Stait
The Artrix Theatre - Bromsgrove
Thursday 3rd October 2024
I was really looking forward to the ‘tale as old as time’ as I had not seen this lavish production for quite a few years. I think everyone knows the well-known story so I’d like to first talk about some of the many characters. Bethany Scott played the role of Belle and Ed Blann was the Beast: I thought the pairing was well cast and both bought credible characterisation to their dialogue. Village gigolo Gaston was played well by Jon Mulkeen; he was not short of attention from the fawning Fille De La Ville.
Once the story moves into the magical castle, it becomes apparent that everyday objects and things are not quite as they seem. Ruby Buckley/Joey Ryder played Chip - my husband is still mystified as to where Chip’s body was hidden in the tea trolley! French maid Babette was played by Emily Cottrell, her accent never faltered. Hannah Thomas played the chest of drawers, Madame De La Grande Bouche. The next three things: the teapot Mrs Potts - Alex Stait, Lumiere the candlestick - Billy Stait and the Clock, Cogsworth – Paul Stait, were brilliant. As you can read, this is real family affair and Billy playing next to his dad Paul had the audience in the palm of their hands. They were both superb, especially their facial expressions and mannerisms, you couldn’t help but smile. Billy also showed strength as it’s not easy to keep both arms up as the candleholders and in the same position for a whole act, let alone two! As for Paul, he totally stole the show for me. I have seen him in quite a few different principal roles over the last few years and I think this has to be his best role to date.
There were other well cast vital cameo roles and a supportive ensemble. It showed they had been well rehearsed in Gaston, Be Our Guest, Human Again and the other ensemble numbers, with strong harmonies throughout.
The castle scenery was impressive and the colourful costumes very eye-catching. I have noted there was a few lighting issues on the night I attended (out of the control of the production team) however, this did not affect the cast’s concentration as they carried on regardless.
Congratulations to everyone involved, especially to the production team for producing a very enjoyable, entertaining evening. It was well received by an appreciative audience who gave a standing ovation.
Queensbridge Musical Theatre Society
Disney’s Beauty and the Beast
Director: Jack Gregson
Musical Director: Oscar Cooper-Spriggs
Choreographer: Evangeline Stait
The Artrix Theatre - Bromsgrove
Thursday 3rd October 2024
I was really looking forward to the ‘tale as old as time’ as I had not seen this lavish production for quite a few years. I think everyone knows the well-known story so I’d like to first talk about some of the many characters. Bethany Scott played the role of Belle and Ed Blann was the Beast: I thought the pairing was well cast and both bought credible characterisation to their dialogue. Village gigolo Gaston was played well by Jon Mulkeen; he was not short of attention from the fawning Fille De La Ville.
Once the story moves into the magical castle, it becomes apparent that everyday objects and things are not quite as they seem. Ruby Buckley/Joey Ryder played Chip - my husband is still mystified as to where Chip’s body was hidden in the tea trolley! French maid Babette was played by Emily Cottrell, her accent never faltered. Hannah Thomas played the chest of drawers, Madame De La Grande Bouche. The next three things: the teapot Mrs Potts - Alex Stait, Lumiere the candlestick - Billy Stait and the Clock, Cogsworth – Paul Stait, were brilliant. As you can read, this is real family affair and Billy playing next to his dad Paul had the audience in the palm of their hands. They were both superb, especially their facial expressions and mannerisms, you couldn’t help but smile. Billy also showed strength as it’s not easy to keep both arms up as the candleholders and in the same position for a whole act, let alone two! As for Paul, he totally stole the show for me. I have seen him in quite a few different principal roles over the last few years and I think this has to be his best role to date.
There were other well cast vital cameo roles and a supportive ensemble. It showed they had been well rehearsed in Gaston, Be Our Guest, Human Again and the other ensemble numbers, with strong harmonies throughout.
The castle scenery was impressive and the colourful costumes very eye-catching. I have noted there was a few lighting issues on the night I attended (out of the control of the production team) however, this did not affect the cast’s concentration as they carried on regardless.
Congratulations to everyone involved, especially to the production team for producing a very enjoyable, entertaining evening. It was well received by an appreciative audience who gave a standing ovation.
2022/2023: The addams' family
Our 2022/2023 production was the cooky, crazy, Addams Family musical! We enjoyed showcasing the society as one big family as that’s what we really are! With reviews commenting on our “brilliant” casting and “amazing” costumes, we were so proud of what we achieved with this show.
A highlight from the performance week was when the fire alarm led to the whole building evacuating - resulting in some fabulous cast photos outside the theatre!
A highlight from the performance week was when the fire alarm led to the whole building evacuating - resulting in some fabulous cast photos outside the theatre!
The Addams Family production images from Hayley Salter Photography
Review of The Addams Family by NODA:
Two different worlds were about to collide in this musical comedy. Will love triumph, or did everyone go home vaguely depressed?
Personally, I feel this show is very much like marmite; you either love it or hate it. I'm very pleased to say it's one of my all-time favourites and I was very much looking forward to seeing it again.
Well directed by Sabrina Sacco, whose vision managed to incorporate the large number of Ancestors, or should I say ‘Dancestors’ that were present as spirits in a number of scenes; wearing an assortment of amazing costumes. As a wardrobe mistress myself, I would have no hesitation in describing them as exceptional! Michelle Hughes and her assistant Dan Hughes who also played the role of Lucas gave the choreography a lively modern feel, it was noticeable the hard work and effort that would have been needed by everyone during rehearsals. Musical director Steve Greenway completed the talented production team. The Central Park Band sounded fabulous, be it a little loud for the audience on some occasions, but it was probably because they were having so much fun.
The well cast ‘Family’ gave strong performances without exception, I must congratulate them as their characterisations never faltered, even though I’m sure they just wanted to laugh out loud many times.
Paul Stait was brilliant as Gomez. I have seen him play a few very different roles now, however I think this is his best to date. There was no mistaking the on-stage chemistry with Catherine Greenway who was playing Morticia; her movements purposefully inhibited in her tight costume until ‘Tango De Amor’. I really liked her characterisation leaving the audience with no doubt of how much trouble Gomez would be in when she found out he was keeping a secret from her. One of my favourite performances was that of Evangeline Stait, who gave a wonderful poker face portrayal of Wednesday Adams. We also saw Thomas Hughes as Pugsley. I would also like to mention other cameo performances from Fran Foster who played Grandma, also Gilly Harris as Alice and Gareth Knipe as Mal. I loved both the setting and content of ‘Full Disclosure’.
In every production I see, there is always one or maybe two characters that, from the audience's point of view, almost steal the show as that’s who you vividly remember. From the moment they set foot on the stage to the moment the curtain closes. On this occasion it was Ed Blann as Uncle Fester (randomly in love with the moon) and Steve Harris as the painstakingly awkward Lurch who both ensured that the audience were truly entertained on their every entrance.
Finally, to answer the question, did everyone go home vaguely depressed? Oh no we most definitely did not … when you’re an Addams, the whole production was a resounding triumph from start to finish.
Thank you for inviting me once again.
Joyce Eyre.
Two different worlds were about to collide in this musical comedy. Will love triumph, or did everyone go home vaguely depressed?
Personally, I feel this show is very much like marmite; you either love it or hate it. I'm very pleased to say it's one of my all-time favourites and I was very much looking forward to seeing it again.
Well directed by Sabrina Sacco, whose vision managed to incorporate the large number of Ancestors, or should I say ‘Dancestors’ that were present as spirits in a number of scenes; wearing an assortment of amazing costumes. As a wardrobe mistress myself, I would have no hesitation in describing them as exceptional! Michelle Hughes and her assistant Dan Hughes who also played the role of Lucas gave the choreography a lively modern feel, it was noticeable the hard work and effort that would have been needed by everyone during rehearsals. Musical director Steve Greenway completed the talented production team. The Central Park Band sounded fabulous, be it a little loud for the audience on some occasions, but it was probably because they were having so much fun.
The well cast ‘Family’ gave strong performances without exception, I must congratulate them as their characterisations never faltered, even though I’m sure they just wanted to laugh out loud many times.
Paul Stait was brilliant as Gomez. I have seen him play a few very different roles now, however I think this is his best to date. There was no mistaking the on-stage chemistry with Catherine Greenway who was playing Morticia; her movements purposefully inhibited in her tight costume until ‘Tango De Amor’. I really liked her characterisation leaving the audience with no doubt of how much trouble Gomez would be in when she found out he was keeping a secret from her. One of my favourite performances was that of Evangeline Stait, who gave a wonderful poker face portrayal of Wednesday Adams. We also saw Thomas Hughes as Pugsley. I would also like to mention other cameo performances from Fran Foster who played Grandma, also Gilly Harris as Alice and Gareth Knipe as Mal. I loved both the setting and content of ‘Full Disclosure’.
In every production I see, there is always one or maybe two characters that, from the audience's point of view, almost steal the show as that’s who you vividly remember. From the moment they set foot on the stage to the moment the curtain closes. On this occasion it was Ed Blann as Uncle Fester (randomly in love with the moon) and Steve Harris as the painstakingly awkward Lurch who both ensured that the audience were truly entertained on their every entrance.
Finally, to answer the question, did everyone go home vaguely depressed? Oh no we most definitely did not … when you’re an Addams, the whole production was a resounding triumph from start to finish.
Thank you for inviting me once again.
Joyce Eyre.
2020/2022: made in dagenham
Our 2021/2022 production was the long awaited Made in Dagenham. After initial auditions and casting pre-Covid we were delighted to finally bring this firecracker show to the stage. We were even more delighted for our 3 nominations (NODA Best Show Award) and 1 won award (BDTG's Crossed Keys Rosebowl award for Best Ensemble)
Made in Dagenham production images from Hayley Salter Photography, Hattie Stark. Abbie Evans and Gareth Knipe
Previous Shows
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1948: The Mikado
1949: The Gondoliers 1950: Lolanthe 1951: The Mikado 1952: Trial by Jury 1952: Yeoman of the Guard 1953: The Gondoliers 1954: Patience 1957: Trial by Jury 1957: Ruddigore 1958: Yeoman and the Guard 1959: Iolanthe 1960: Pirates of Penzance 1960: Cox and Box 1961: Princess Ida 1962: Die Fledermaus 1963: The Merry Widow 1963: The Gondoliers 1964: Lilac Time 1965: The Quaker Girls 1966: Patience 1967: A Waltz Dream 1968: Ruddigore 1969: Orpeus in the Underworld 1970: Naughty Marietta 1971: The Mikado 1972: The Land of Smiles 1973: La Belle Helene 1974: Merrie England 1975: The Gypsy Baron 1976: The Grand Duchess 1977: Die Fledermaus 1977: Queensbridge Entertains (Inc Trial by Jury) 1978: La Perichole 1980: The Merry Widow 1981: Orpheus in the Underworld 1981: HMS. Pinafore 1982: The Card 1983: A Waltz Dream |
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1984: Lilac Time
1984: Carousel 1985: 'String of Pearls' 1986: The Quaker Girl 1987: Fiddler on the Roof 1988: The Most Happy Fella 1989: La Belle Helene 1990: The Pyjama Game 1991: The Court of Luxembourg 1992: My Fair Lady 1993: Calamity Jane 1994: Charlie Girl 1995: Oklahoma 1996: Gigi 1997: High Society 1998: The King and I 1999: Brigadoon 2000: The Card 2001: Anything Goes 2002: Crazy for You 2003: My Fair Lady 2004: Carousel 2005: Fiddler on the Roof 2006: Me and My Girl 2007: Hello Dolly 2008: Oklahoma 2009: Mack and Mable 2010: Annie 2011: Thoroughly Modern Millie 2012: Diamond Decades 2013: The Wizard of Oz 2014: Little Shop of Horrors 2015: The Lion, The Witch & The Wardrobe 2016: The King & I 2017: Oliver 2018: Sister Act 2019: Sweet Charity 2022: Made in Dagenham 2023: The Addams Family 2024: Disney's Beauty and the Beast 2025: The Sound of Music |
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