Opera North has announced it will bring The Sound of Music to Leeds Grand Theatre in summer 2026, offering audiences a fresh chance to enjoy one of musical theatre’s most well-loved stories.

Running from 9 July to 1 August, the new production is based on the Curve Theatre’s upcoming version, which opens in Leicester this November. Directed by Nikolai Foster (Kinky Boots, My Fair Lady, A Chorus Line), the show will feature the Chorus and Orchestra of Opera North. Casting details will be revealed in the coming months.

The original stage version of The Sound of Music premiered on Broadway in 1959, with music by Richard Rodgers and lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II. It quickly became a hit and was adapted into the Oscar-winning film starring Julie Andrews and Christopher Plummer in 1965. The story has remained a favourite for generations, known for its emotional depth and memorable songs.

Set in Austria on the eve of the Second World War, the musical follows Maria, a lively novice nun who is sent to care for the von Trapp children. Through music and imagination, Maria wins over the children and gradually softens the heart of their strict father, Captain von Trapp. When the family faces the threat of Nazi occupation, they are forced to make a life-changing decision.

Audiences can expect all the classics, including Do-Re-Mi, My Favorite Things, Climb Ev’ry Mountain and, of course, the title track, The Sound of Music.

To make the show as accessible as possible, Opera North is offering £10 tickets for under 30s and £22 Secret Seats for anyone happy to be surprised by their seat location. A range of accessible performances will be available across the run, including BSL interpreted, Audio Described with Touch Tours, and Captioned shows. Several matinees will also be scheduled.

Laura Canning, General Director of Opera North, said:

“We are delighted to be bringing another musical theatre classic to Leeds following the success of My Fair Lady at Leeds Playhouse last year. The Sound of Music continues to enthral audiences wherever it’s performed, and this Made in Curve production promises to appeal to everyone who has already fallen under the story’s charm, while also engaging a whole new generation of fans. Hearing Rodgers and Hammerstein’s iconic score performed by the Orchestra of Opera North in the historic surroundings of Leeds Grand Theatre promises to be a truly special occasion.”

Priority booking opens on Thursday 7 August, with general sale starting Friday 15 August.