FORMER reality TV star Danielle Hope heads the cast of The Sound Of Music, which will be staged at Liverpool's Empire Theatre next month.

The actress – who became a household name after winning BBC talent show Over the Rainbow – plays Maria Von Trapp in the show, which will be staged at the city centre venue from September 14-19.

Hailed as one of the greatest musicals of all time, it is the true story of the world-famous singing family and their thrilling escape to freedom as their beloved Austria becomes part of the Third Reich at the start of World War Two.

Wirral Globe:

Scene from The Sound Of Music. Picture: Pamela Raith Photography

Speaking to the Globe during the Dublin leg of the tour this afternoon, Danielle said: "We have been touring all over the country since January and it's been amazing.

"It's a fantastic show to be involved in."

Produced by Bill Kenwright and directed by Martin Connor, this new production coincides with the 50th anniversary of the film. Also in the show is Steven Houghton as Captain von Trapp. 

Danielle continued: "I remember watching the film many times with my nan when I was growing up, so it's always had a special link with my childhood.

"One of the main reasons for going for the role was that I am a huge fan of Julie Andrews, who played Maria in the film and was such an inspiration to me.

"The producers were very specific on who should play Maria and they chose me, so I feel a great responsibility to the show."

Wirral Globe:

Scene from The Sound Of Music. Picture: Pamela Raith Photography

The Warrington-born actress won BBC Television's Over the Rainbow, to her professional debut as Dorothy in The Wizard of Oz at the London Palladium.

She has since played Eponine in Les Misérables in London's West End and Narrator in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.

Joining the company as Captain von Trapp is much-loved stage and television star Steven Houghton.

The story of the Trapp Family Singers and Baroness Maria von Trapp inspired Richard Rodgers, Oscar Hammerstein II, Howard Lindsay and Russel Crouse to create a Broadway musical in 1959.

The show's songs include Edelweiss, My Favourite Things, Do-Re-Mi and of course, the title song, The Sound of Music.

On coming to the Liverpool Empire, Danielle said: "I was there a year ago, when I was in a touring production of Joseph and I’m looking forward to getting back on its stage.

"It also means I’ll get to see my family, who still live in Warrington. My nan's got a coach-load of people coming to see the show."

Tickets are from the box office on 0844 871 3017 or atgtickets.com/Liverpool