Pickering Musical Society Welcomes New Director

Pickering Musical Society is proud to announce an exciting new chapter in its history as it prepares to stage My Favourite Things – The Music of Rodgers & Hammerstein at the Kirk Theatre.

For the first time, long-time member Courtney Brown takes the reins as Director, with experienced society stalwart Luke Arnold stepping into the role of Assistant Director to support and guide her in this important transition.

This production marks an inspiring milestone for both the society and Courtney herself. Having served as Assistant Director in last year’s sell-out success Wonders of the West End, Courtney now moves centre stage creatively, shaping a production that promises to be every bit as vibrant, polished, and heartfelt as audiences have come to expect from Pickering Musical Society.

Courtney is relishing the challenge: 

“It has been such a joy to step into the Director’s role and watch this production grow from the rehearsal room into a fully staged concert. The cast have been incredibly supportive, and seeing everything come together - the music, the costumes, the choreography - is just magical.

"I feel so grateful to have Luke by my side, offering his experience and encouragement. It’s a true team effort.”

Luke, who has directed many of the society’s acclaimed productions over the years, has embraced his mentoring role with enthusiasm:

“Courtney has a wonderful eye for detail and a real passion for musical theatre. It has been a pleasure to guide her through the process and watch her flourish as a director in her own right. I’m proud of what she and the whole team are achieving - this is going to be a very special show.”

Running for just six performances from Wednesday 15th to Sunday 19th October at 7:30pm, with a special Saturday matinee on the 18th at 2:30pm, My Favourite Things – The Music of Rodgers & Hammerstein will showcase the very best of Broadway’s most iconic songwriting partnership.

Audiences can expect a glittering selection of much-loved numbers, from the cheeky charm of “Honey Bun” and the playful fun of “The Lonely Goatherd” to the rousing barn-dance energy of “The Farmer and the Cowman”.

Alongside these highlights, the evening will feature songs from Rodgers & Hammerstein’s most famous shows, including The Sound of Music, Oklahoma!, Carousel, South Pacific, The King and I and more.

The concert brings together the heart, humour, and sweeping romance of the golden age of musicals, ensuring there is something for everyone — whether you know every word or are discovering these timeless songs for the very first time.

Audiences won’t just be treated to wonderful singing. The concert will be accompanied by a live orchestra under the baton of Clive Wass, who has once again assembled the same talented musicians who wowed audiences during the society’s acclaimed production of Hello, Dolly! earlier this year. 

Adding sparkle and spectacle, dancers from the Sarah Louise Ashworth School of Dance will light up the stage with elegant and vibrant choreography. Their energy and artistry will bring a dynamic, visual flourish to the evening, perfectly complementing the glorious Rodgers & Hammerstein score.

The production will also feature a minimalistic but striking set, built by the society’s dedicated Saturday morning volunteers, led by Rob Thomas. This clever design provides the perfect canvas for the music and performances to shine, while still delivering visual impact. And the best is yet to come - in the next week, the society will welcome its team of skilled technicians, who will transform the stage with lighting, special effects, and even a spectacular video wall, creating a truly immersive concert atmosphere.

Courtney reflected on the rehearsals: 

“The first time we put costumes, lights, and music together, everything suddenly came alive. It felt like we’d stepped into the Rodgers & Hammerstein musicals themselves. That’s the moment I realised how special this production is going to be.”

My Favourite Things follows the resounding success of Wonders of the West End in 2023, which played to sold-out houses and left audiences asking for more.

The society is confident that this year’s offering will continue that momentum. With its powerful combination of timeless tunes, high-energy performances, and the warmth of community theatre, this new production will be an unforgettable celebration of music and talent in Pickering.

Luke added: 

“Our society has always been about giving people opportunities - whether it’s new performers on stage, new musicians in the pit, or new directors stepping forward. Seeing Courtney grow into this role has been a privilege, and I know audiences are going to be amazed by what she and the whole team have achieved.”

With only six performances scheduled, demand is already high, and tickets are selling fast.

Tickets are priced at £15 and can be booked online, by calling 01751 474833, or in person at the Kirk Theatre box office (Tuesdays, 11am to 1pm).

Photographs by Robert David Photography