THANKS to a Catholic education at St Brenda’s and Sacred Heart College (now Notre Dame College) in Shepparton in the 1960s and 1970s, Tricia Voss learnt to love music and singing.

While neither school was known for theatre classes, a grade four production of Thoroughly Modern Millie did teach her the Charleston and she had a wonderful music teacher who played the guitar and loved to sing.

“That was the year The Sound of Music came out and I remember Mum paying 50 cents for me to see the movie on a school excursion,” Tricia said.

“The Sound of Music has been my favourite musical ever since and my children and I know it word-for-word.”

In addition to her music teacher, Tricia’s love of musicals, a love and appreciation of classical music and ballet is thanks to her mother.

“I have continued the practice of taking my own children to every production I’ve been able to and this continues today even though they are now grown and have their own families.”

Tricia was introduced to the Wangaratta Players a number of years ago, in time to audition and be given a role in their production of Grease.

“It was so much fun and I have tried to be involved in local theatre in some way over the years since then,” Tricia said.

“I’ve done a couple of smaller productions and more recently worked with a lovely team who do amazing backstage work; it’s great being able to see how a whole production comes together and the amazing amount of work it takes.”

Tricia’s latest role with the Wangaratta Players will be as Miss Jacobs - a stalwart of Goodes Department Store - in the August production of Ladies in Black.

“Ladies in Black is one of my favourite books, one I’ve read more than once over the years, and I loved watching the movie when it came out as well.” Tricia said.

“I was so excited to learn there was also a stage play and I pestered Colette (Quin, director) for many months desperate to see when auditions would take place.

“I knew I wanted to be a part of this, whether on stage or backstage and I was delighted to be offered to the role of Miss Jacobs.

“I love that she (Miss Jacobs) is someone with a lot of life experience and someone who can see what a life of missed opportunity can bring.

“I think the story of Ladies in Black is in fact one of opportunity – opportunity lost and opportunity to grasp with both hands.

“It’s during a period of great change and prospects for people from all walks of life and it’s a story of letting go and taking chances, so may be something everyone can relate to.”

Then of course there is the dancing and singing to the music of Tim Finn for the cast to learn and enjoy, and Tricia said she is lucky to be surrounded by equally enthusiastic cast members who can share their talents with her.

“I am loving the challenge of learning it all especially under the direction of Colette and I feel privileged to be taking part in this wonderful production.”

Ladies in Black will be staged at the Wangaratta Performing Arts & Convention Centre (WPACC) on Thursday August 17, Friday, August 18 and Saturday, August 19 at 7pm, with a matinee performance on Saturday, August 19 at 2pm.

Tickets are on sale now via the WPACC box office in Ford Street or online at https://wpacc.sales.ticketsearch.com/sales/salesevent/95168.