Armstrong stars in leading role in production of The Sound of Music

DRAYTON

Four years after winning national attention as a runner-up in the CBC hit reality television series, How Do You Solve A Problem Like Maria?, Jayme Armstrong finally has the chance to “Climb Every Mountain.”

The Vancouver native is starring in the coveted role of Maria Rainer in Drayton Entertainment’s production of The Sound of Music, which  launched the Drayton Festival Theatre’s 2012 season on May 15.

“I’m so thrilled to be performing on the Drayton stage,” said Armstrong. “Drayton Entertainment is so well known and respected in the theatre industry from coast to coast.  I am excited to play this iconic role in such an iconic theatre.”

Alex Mustakas, artistic director of Drayton Entertainment, caught Armstrong’s performances on television along with the rest of the country, and immediately cast her in such smash productions as Country Legends, How To Succeed in Business Without Really Trying and the company’s North American tour of Camelot.

Earlier this year Armstrong starred in a sold-out run of 9 To 5: The Musical at the St. Jacobs Country Playhouse.

“Jayme is the real deal,” said Mustakas. “I audition hundreds of performers each year, and it is rare to find someone with such depth of talent. She is truly one of the elite leading ladies in Canadian theatre.”

Beginning her acting career at the age of 6 as a Munchkin in The Wizard of Oz, Armstrong has since performed at the Stratford Festival, Gateway Theatre, Sony Centre and many more.

Although a British Columbia native, Armstrong has made West Montrose her temporary home at the moment; she says she loves the serenity of the country and its rolling farmland. Working in the area has also given her the opportunity to be around family living in the city of Cambridge, the future location of Drayton Entertainment’s seventh theatre.

“I’ve been fortunate to receive so many wonderful opportunities, but the Drayton stage has a special place in my heart. The theatre is so intimate you can’t help but connect with the audience,” said Armstrong.

“After the TV show, I honestly thought I would never play this role, and I was fine with that. But as soon as Alex told me about the amazing creative team, cast and musicians he had assembled, there was no way I could pass up this opportunity. It’s inspiring to work alongside such talented individuals.”

Drayton Entertainment’s production of The Sound of Music features a cast of 30, including local youngsters as the mischievous von Trapp children, and a chorus of community members.

“This is a big production for the Drayton stage,” said Armstrong. “I am humbled and excited by what’s in store for theatregoers.”

The Sound of Music plays 8 shows a week until June 9. Tickets can be purchased online at www.draytonfestivaltheatre.com, in person at the Drayton Festival Theatre or, by calling the box office at 519-638-5555 or toll free at 1-855-372-9866.

May 18, 2012