The Sound of Music

Choreographer: Penny Brown

This was a heart-warming evening’s entertainment and a good choice for the society’s twenty fifth anniversary. This was an undoubted triumph for the director, musical director and choreographer who were also the production team when the same musical was chosen for the society’s first show. The whole cast from major principals to chorus can be very proud of their performances. I am sure they must have been aware of how much their efforts were appreciated by the audience’s response particularly at the final curtain.

There were strong well maintained performances from Sarah Brookes (Maria) in her first major role, Anthony Stoker, (Captain Von Trapp), David Wilson (Max), Sarah Purvis (Mother Abbess), Sally Pumford (Elsa) and of course the enchanting children. The relationship between the excellent Hannah Firth (Liesl) and Michael Pearson
(Rolf) was very well portrayed. All other characters supported the main principals effectively; in fact there was not a weak link in the whole team. The extensive chorus of Nuns sang well and those who had returned for the celebratory show must have enjoyed being part of a performance again.

The stage was well used, lighting effective, scene changes unobtrusive and the choreography pitched at a suitable level. The scenery and props enhanced the overall effect and added to the enjoyment. An orchestra sensitively directed by Paul Toward admirably accompanied the whole show. Costumes accurately reflected the period and attention to detail with the ladies shoes was good to see. Happy Anniversary, Alnwick, and thank you for inviting me to be a part of it.

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