adminhome of widower Captain Georg von Trapp to care for his seven children as their governess, and she soon finds that being a nun was not perhaps right for her and then love comes calling.
The story is set against the backdrop of the Anschluss, when Germany annexed Austria, and the resulting growth in Nazi activity in the country — a development unpalatable to Captain von Trapp, who decides to take his family over the mountains to Switzerland.
The real-life Von Trapps went to the United States, where they formed a popular musical group that toured and entertained for many years. Their story was turned into a stage musical by Rogers and Hammerstein with a number of successful and long runs on Broadway and in the West End, and was made into a hugely successful film in 1965, starring Julie Andrews and Christopher Plummer.
“This is a timeless musical show that appeals to all ages and has been adored by millions of people around the world for many years,” said Sue Bolt, director of the Reps production.
“Now it comes back as a treat for all of us who have seen it on stage and screen before and it also comes to introduce this warm and delightful story to a whole new generation.”
“The Sound of Music” has been staged at Reps several times during the past 50 years and the new production will star Christina Jenkins as Maria and Marc Thomas as Captain von Trapp. In support is a full cast, among them a line-up of newcomers to the Reps stage. Meg Mackenzie is musical director and Clare Hingeston choreographer, while set design and stage management are being handled by Tim Garrard, a former Reps chairman.
“This show will be enjoyed by people of all ages and we are delighted with the public response since advance bookings opened several weeks ago,” said Ms Bolt.
The show will have a preview night on Wednesday July 17, when pensioners can see it for free, while opening night will be Thursday July 18.
A gala night for ROKPA has been scheduled for Friday July 19, while three Saturday matinee performances have been scheduled to cater for people who do not like to travel at night: 2.30pm on July 20, July 27 and August 3. A special family night has been laid on for Tuesday July 23, when all tickets will be half price for everyone. The show runs until Saturday August 3.
“The ‘Sound of Music’ is not just a musical show; it is an entertainment phenomenon, with some of the best-known and best-enjoyed songs ever written for the stage,” said Ms Bolt.
Online Reporter