Ulster Operatic Company

I am originally from East Germany but in 1989 I escaped the clutches of the Stasi and went to the West to promote the brilliance of Cowboy and Western Musicals. Upon arriving in Belfast I soon got involved in Musical Theatre in a production of ‘Oklahoma!’ directed by Peter Kennedy. I then became a member of Belfast Operatic Company and performed in many shows with them including ‘The Mikado’, ‘Pirates of Penzance’, ‘Patience’, ‘ShowBoat’, Numerous Panto’s, ‘HMS Pinafore’, ‘Trial by Jury’, and ‘Calamity Jane’. I also have done shows with other companies including St. Agnes’ Choral Society… ‘Me and My Girl’, ‘Camelot’, ‘Oliver’, ‘Carousel’, ‘Trial by Jury’, ‘Merry Widow’, ‘The Messiah’ in Clonard Monastry with Brian Kennedy and taking part in Peter Corry’s production of ‘Les Miserables’ in the Odyssey, Belfast Bangor Operatic Society… ‘Sweet Charity’, ‘Oklahoma’, Little Shop of Horrors. Not to mention a few AIMS concerts along the way! Since joining The Ulster in 2001 I have been an integral part of the rejuvenation of the Company serving as Secretary on the committee for the last 6 years. I have performed in pretty much everything the Company has put on since then! ‘Little Shop of Horrors’ (three times), ‘South Pacific’, ‘Calamity Jane’, ‘Oklahoma!’ ‘West Side Story’ (twice), ‘Sleeping Beauty’, ‘Cinderella’, ‘Aladdin’, ‘Rent’, ‘Boogie Nights’, ‘Music Box’ (twice) and also a Member of the Mission Band in ‘Guys and Dolls’ (true to form… I made sure all the Mission girls were wearing suitable under garments!)

Have been associated with the Ulster Operatic Company since 1970, when I played "Kurt" in 'The Sound of Music' in the Grand Opera House. Between 1978 and 1988 played roles in 3 shows per year with the company (Spring, Autumn and Panto)

Have directed so many shows for the Company that I've lost count. Was there through the era when the UOC had it's own theatre in Harberton Park, at which time, my father William was Chairman, and my mother Marie, ran the theatre coffee bar. My sister Sharon was also a performing member of the company.

Still regard the Ulster as my parent Company, and have made so many friends through the years. 

I am proud and delighted that in their 100th year, the Ulster reached a new pinnacle of success in receiving 7 AIMS nominations, including "Best Overall Show" for 'Guys and Dolls'.  Here's hoping that success will continue.

Good luck to the Company for the future.