THIS was an excellent first-night performance, played to an appreciative full-house.

Probably the best-known musical of all time the company did full justice to the familiar Rodgers and Hammerstein songs, with Helen Stewart a very attractive and talented Maria.

Playing opposite her Matthew Ellison (Von Trapp) wasn’t entirely comfortable vocally but otherwise played the role well.

The children, particularly six-year-old Carenza Thomas, were regular scenestealers and Ian Watts was a confident Max Detweiler. Lizzie Harden (Elsa) and Katherine Evans (Liesl) gave strong support but the most powerful performer, vocally, was Joanna Gradwell as Mother Abbess.

The set was adapted easily to form a variety of locations, the lighting was fine but the orchestra, led by Nick Vaughan, was often a little too loud.

But joint-directors Adam Myers and Jess Connelly should be pleased with their show.

A drop of golden sun!