Peak Practice star Simon Shepherd has left the cast of The Sound of Music after only two preview performances of the upcoming West End production.

Shepherd, who was due to play Captain Von Trapp, has reportedly left by 'mutual decision' with the show's producers. A statement was issued by director Jeremy Sams and producers Andrew Lloyd Webber and David Ian, clarifying that all parties "agreed that [Shepherd’s] performance as Captain von Trapp was not working within the production". The role will now be played by Alexander Hanson.

The £4 million production of the musical has been the subject of intense media scrutiny following the decision to cast the female lead - Connie Fisher - via a BBC One reality show entitled How Do You Solve a Problem Like Maria?

The production is scheduled to open in London on November 15.