Under the direction of Mike Sorenson, Vernal Theatre: LIVE presents a Rodgers and Hammerstein Musical, The Sound of Music. This classic follows the story of Maria Ranier (Kassidy Bowen), a young postulant who struggles to conform to the regulations of the Nonnberg Abbey. Mother Abbess (Rachel Wells) sends Maria to serve as governess to the seven Von Trapp children who, after their mothers passing, must adhere to strict military discipline from their widower father (Sheldon Walton). Through music and fun, Maria grows closer to the children and helps to open their father’s eyes to the children’s needs. It is with love and courage that these characters are changed, finding the strength they need within each other.
The beautiful harmonies of the Abbey choir will bring you to tears and mark the atmosphere of the show. Such great characterization by Rachel Wells, Andrea Wardle, Mattison Bowen, and Claire Owens in ‘How do you solve a problem like Maria?’ They will have you smiling and laughing and smiling some more.
While these ladies have a beautiful mix of vocals, the Von Trapp children really knock your socks off with their skills. Their blend of voices is both charming and entertaining as they paint the picture of sibling comradery, dancing together with trust in their co actors and a passion for their craft. A relatable character for me was Leisl von Trapp, played by Lily Wilson. Lily brings you into Leisl’s emotional and transformative journey as a sibling, a young lady, and a growing woman. And little Gretl von Trapp, played by Maggy Sorenson, will steal your heart with her powerful voice and sweet interactions.
Kassidy Bowen as Maria really shines in this role as she sings about the hills of her homeland and parades the steps of the Von Trapp family home with the children, seven. Sheldon Walton as Captain Georg von Trapp fills the room with his powerful vocals and commanding presence.
A fun duo shows itself in the shape of two friends, the children’s “Uncle” Max Detweiler (Kenzy Anderson) and Captain von Trapp’s fiance Elsa Shraeder (Korrine Peacock). These two are dazzling in their scenes together.
Choreographed by Taunia Wheeler and costumed by Trisha Sorenson this cast of twenty-eight of our local talent is an illustration of excitement and elegance. Music director Danni Harrison has done a magnificent job, as all the songs have a beautiful balance. The stage’s set is truly magical and transforms the audience to 1930s Salzburg Austria.
“Theater is about People,” says producer Nashelle Jackson, and oh how true that is. Director Mike Sorenson says, “I hope what I am going to take from this, is a shared experience of working together with such talented, phenomenal people.” It is exceptionally wonderful to see this group tell this classic story. Not only do the actors perform their roles, but they have extra jobs to do behind stage and between scenes, assisting the crew to help things run smoothly.
“This show teaches…to a single person or even a family,” shares Kenzy Anderson (Uncle Max). “You learn so much from what happened back then. Everything can apply to today’s times. Definitely come and see it.”
The Sound of Music runs at Vernal Theatre: LIVE select nights through April 24th. For ticket information, visit www.vernaltheatre.com.
Photo Credit: Joie Madison Films & Photos
