IT is always exciting to be in the audience at a West End theatre, to see a top class musical production to wonder at the singing, choreography, acting, the orchestra and overall enthusiasm of the entire cast.

But this particular musical was not being performed at a West End theatre. It was right here in Swindon.

I refer to the magnificent production of The Sound of Music by the Wyvern Theatre Summer Youth Project 2004.

I have managed to see most of the youth project shows and every one has been of the same high standard.

But The Sound of Music is my favourite so far and I have nothing but admiration for being entertained by 150 local children, who showed every sign of being professional artists.

What I find difficult to accept is that these young people had just ten days to rehearse and bring us these lavish shows, which of course must reflect on the ability of the show producer and supporting team.

The orchestra was a delight to hear and blended with the cast so well, I am sure encouraged the children in their singing and dancing parts.

It was a full house with a enthusiastic audience who gave several standing ovations, and after the show ended the talk around the auditorium was full of praise and the desire to see more.

Well done everyone and thank you for a wonderful performance of what must be everyone's favourite musical. If music is the food of life please keep feeding us with more musical calories.

JOHN HOLMES

Windsor Road

I SPENT an enjoyable evening at the Wyvern Theatre, watching the performance of The Sound of Music by the Swindon Youth Project.

On contacting the theatre, I learned that about 150, mainly youngsters, were involved as producers, performers, technicians, etc, and what I found even more surprising was that they spent less than two weeks learning, rehearsing and dress-rehearsing before treading the boards for real.

May I commend each and every individual for their excellent performance. This is Swindon home grown talent and we should be proud of them. I would single out for mention the cheeky little chappie at the end of the line of knapsackers with the largest knapsack and the biggest pair of boots, he was a lovable little gem.

After all the bouquets must come the brickbats. Come on Swindon, bring your theatre into the 21st century. Enlarge, refurbish, brighten and please please give us air conditioning. We sweated buckets in there.

IVAN E RICKWOOD

Eldene

I WOULD like to thank the young people who worked to put on a wonderful performance of Sound of Music at the Wyvern. What an evening of entertainment. They were all stars. And thanks to the adults who gave up so much of their time, organising and getting their young ones to the show every night. Well done

ANNE HUGHES

Ramleaze

What an excellent show and as good or even better than you would see in the West End.

I saw it with some friends and family and we all enjoyed it very much. A lot of hard work must have gone into it in such a short time. Well done to you all.

JEAN GARLICK

St Mary's Grove