The Community Train CRP is organising another celebratory singalong to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the iconic The Sound of Music.
The Sound of Musichas a special local connection to the Royal Borough of Kingston, as the album was produced and distributed by Decca Records in New Malden – and topped the UK album charts for 70 weeks between 1965 and 1968.
To celebrate this heritage and bring local people together – equally special during the Railway 200 year – Community Train CRP and the New Malden Residents’ Association (the station adopters) organised a celebratory singalong on 13 September 2025 at New Malden Station, thanks to funding from South Western Railway.
Jane Wilkinson, a well-known local soprano, was invited to lead the singing with her choir, and a local Korean choir was invited to join the celebrations too.
New Malden Station forecourt became a stage alive with music and colour, and a dramatic film backdrop was hung from the multistorey car park. The event drew in an audience of around 300 people including members of the public, rail staff, local councillors and Ed Davey, MP for Kingston and Surbiton. Attendees – many in costume – joined in with singing the classic songs enthusiastically.
The event was such a success, that another has been planned for Saturday 6 December at Waterloo Station. Members of the public are invited to join in the singing at The Sidings (near Platform 22) at 11:30am and 12:30pm. Further details can be found here.
Himali Patil, Community Train CRP officer, said: “We are delighted to have coordinated this special event celebrating such a unique story from our local community and history.
“The collaboration of various choirs and community members created a shared performance that broke down barriers, encouraged participation and a bit of silliness, which highlighted New Malden Station as a space for animation and connection.
“We can’t wait to celebrate with even more people at Waterloo Station on 6 December.”
Keep up to date with future news, projects and events from The Community Train CRP via their website.