Meet The Band

I am now officially part of a band called The Howlin’ Winds. Chosen (very democratically) from a list of suggestions put forward by the rest of the company of Girl From The North Country, our name was officially announced just before our press night in Dublin yesterday evening. Tradition dictates that each production of GFTNC names its band, and we are very happy with ours, being (as it turns out) a lyric from the title song!

So for the first time since the pandemic hit and abruptly paused by theatrical career, I am back on track as Musical Director for my own show. I have really landed on my feet with this one, looking forward every day to the rehearsals, enjoying a stress-free production period (even though the start of technical rehearsals was delayed by 18 hours due to customs issues) and a proper feeling of honing the show through previews ready for a pitch-perfect press night. Even after celebrating until 4am, I can’t wait to get back there tonight to continue our run.

The support I receive is one of the greatest aspects of this show, from a trusting band of musicians, an onstage company who look out for each other, the incredible ovations from audiences each night, a really thoughtful production company, and the truly lovely words of wisdom from Conor, Simon and the rest of the most ridiculously talented creative team to have worked with.

We stay in Dublin for the rest of July, where I have family flying out due to a rather important (40th!) birthday that I have this month. This is certainly a great city to celebrate such a milestone!