If you've been watching the TV on a Saturday night, you'll have no doubt seen MKAOS regular Laura Sicurello in the BBC's How do you solve a problem like Maria? in which Sir Andrew Lloyd-Webber is searching for a leading lady to take on the role of Maria in his new production of The Sound of Music. Laura was last seen with MKAOS as Florence Vassey in Chess.

We were all delighted and proud to see Laura make her way through 'Maria School' and into the final 10. Unfortunately, Laura was (unfairly, in our opinion!) in the bottom two at the end of the first of the live shows and Andrew Lloyd-Webber chose to 'evict' Laura off the show.

Laura said after the show:

"I'd like to thank everybody for giving me this chance. I loved every minute of it and I wish all the other girls the best of luck. I'm really happy with the song I had and what I did with it tonight and I can go home with my head held high. I've never done anything like this before and I think I've done myself proud."

Since appearing on the programme Laura has acquired an equity card, and has plans to meet with some contacts she has made once the programme is over.

Laura has since been in touch:

"I had the most fantastic time - I've been really chuffed about the whole experience. Thank you for all the cards, kind words and support."

We are all very proud of Laura too and wish her continued success … we hope that she'll still find time amid all the offers to come and join us in a production again sometime soon!

added 16/09/06