My most memorable moments working on stage with children are always the most current ones. Our families in The Sound of Music are just delightful. They love what they do out there and they have more energy to give even after the show finishes. They support each other whether they are performing that night or not.

Singing Climb Ev'ry Mountain is highly emotional. I haven't always liked the song. But in performing the role of Mother Abbess, I understand it in context – letting go and sending someone (or yourself) on to the next part of your life journey. When I sing this in the show, I sing it to Maria (Veronica Thwaites-Brown). We both well up but she can go with the emotion, I have to keep singing right through to the big finish.

I enjoy cross-stitch because it's my time! It is an old-style hobby that has made a comeback over recent years. It might be a solo project but you can work in the company of others. Conversations can continue; I work during long rehearsals; and I can even "watch" movies. Just nobody put anything on with subtitles.

My most embarrassing moment on stage is yet to happen. Although trying not to giggle in a G&S chorus while an elderly gentleman sleeps peacefully in the front row comes close.

The best part about directing a show was seeing my vision unfold. When I chose Me & My Girl, it is in your mind's eye for quite a long time. I poured everything into the planning and blocking before rehearsals even started. Having a strong team around me is the best support and in return you have people to share the joys of the final product.

The Sound of Music is on at the Queanbeyan Performing Arts Centre today at 1.30pm and 7.30pm. Bookings: theq.net.au.