In a highly anticipated announcement, Northern Ireland Opera today revealed that classical music luminary Lesley Garrett CBE will make her company debut in a dazzling new production of Stephen Sondheim and James Goldman's "Follies." The acclaimed soprano joins an already stellar cast for what promises to be a historic revival at the Grand Opera House in Belfast, running from September 13th to 20th, 2025.
Celebrating her 45th anniversary in the industry, Garrett will step into the iconic role of opera diva Heidi Schiller. "I’m so excited to be coming back to Belfast and especially to be making my debut with Northern Ireland Opera at the age of 70!" shared Garrett. "Sondheim’s Follies is a masterpiece and I’m delighted to have been given the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to perform the iconic role of Heidi Schiller. Come and join me on this fabulous adventure!"
"Follies" delves into the lives of former showgirls of the legendary Weismann Follies, who reunite after thirty years at their beloved decaying Broadway theatre for one final gathering before its demolition. Old flames reignite, rivalries resurface, and by the end of the night, their worlds will be irrevocably altered.
Garrett is joined by a formidable ensemble, including West End royalty and jazz vocalist Jacqueline Dankworth MBE, returning to Sondheim after three decades to play Carlotta Campion. Musical theatre powerhouses Anna-Jane Casey (Cats, Chicago) and Annette McLaughlin (Matilda The Musical, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child) will portray former roommates Sally Plummer and Phyllis Stone. Belfast's own Mark Dugdale (Come From Away) and West End favourite Alasdair Harvey (Beauty and the Beast, Guys and Dolls) star as best friends Buddy Palmer and Benjamin Stone, respectively. Also featured is Belfast-based TV actress and West End performer Allison Harding (Sister Act) as Hattie Walker, delivering the legendary "Broadway Baby."
This epic new production, never before professionally staged in Northern Ireland, is directed by Northern Ireland Opera's Artistic Director Cameron Menzies. Greg Arrowsmith, celebrating 25 years as a Musical Director and his 21st West End show, will lead the 35-piece Orchestra of Northern Ireland Opera. With choreography by Jennifer Rooney and set design by Niall McKeever, this rarely staged musical promises to be a grand and unforgettable event.
