The Sound of Music

As I made my way to Tunbridge Wells in a torrential downpour I was really looking forward to an entertaining afternoon to brighten the day– I was not to be disappointed.

I can’t believe the original stage show was performed in 1959 in New York and now it is 60 years since the film with Julie Andrews graced our cinemas. This iconic show is still much loved by audiences judging by the almost full auditorium.

The Assembly Hall Theatre’s large stage needed large scenery which, supplied by Scenic Projects ltd, really gave an authentic look from an Abbey to the Von Trapp sumptuous mansion and various inset scenes, all highlighted by Alex Hawkins lighting design. Triple C Costume Hire Ltd supplied the excellent costumes. For MD Hatty Philips’ debut with TWODS she must have been delighted with the vocal standard of all the cast whilst maintaining a good balance between the 16-piece orchestra and singers. Elizabeth Witt’s choreography was, as always, visually effective.

I must give special praise to the chorus of nuns who open the show, their harmonies were just delightful to listen to and Lelia Di Domenico as Mother Abbess gave such a lovely rendition of Climb Every Mountain, it brought a tear to the eye! The lynch-pin role of Maria was in the very capable hands of Imogen Hart-Smith. Her rapport with the children was plain to see. Simon Kerr-Davies captured the role of Captain Von Trapp from a stern military disciplinarian to loving husband and father. Ashleigh Acres as Lisl was a warm and vivacious performer and her scenes between her and Theo Beak, who played telegraph boy Rolf, showed the innocence of young love. At my performance the Von Trapp children were Team Schnitzel. Friedrich, Joshua Gale. Louisa, Molly Pearson. Kurt, Alf Killpack. Brigitta, Elodie Orton-Jay. Marta, Elara Rose and Gretl, Poppy Collyer. What a well-disciplined group this was all with strong clear personalities (I’m sure Team Strudel were just as good!). Charlie Harden as Max Detweiler and Rebeccas Mitchell as Elsa Schraeder gave strong support as did butler Franze (Andrew Swann) and housekeeper Frau Schmidt (Lynn White). In fact all the minor roles and ensemble contributed admirably.

Director Alison Cripps and her assistant Tom Tapsfield must have been delighted with the high standard achieved by both cast, their hardworking back-stage crew and  production team.

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.