The Sound of Music

This ever popular show was superbly brought to life by the Newcastle MTC. To me the undoubted stars of the production were of course, the children (the Blue Team on the evening of my visit).  They were quickly transformed from their naval disciplined adherence to the bosun’s whistle into a chorus of singing sensations bringing to life the warmth and laughter of Rodgers and Hammersteins music and lyrics. There was a high degree of professionalism with the children obviously well directed & trained. I particularly enjoyed “Do-Re-Mi” by Maria and the children together; “So long, Farewell” again with Maria, the Children with Captain Von Trapp.

If the yellow team were anywhere near to the scintillating quality of the blue team then the Show should be successful.

I must not let these comments in anyway detract from the other Principals. Nikki Robertson as Maria Rayner provided a strong vocal performance in her pitch perfect singing. Her day job as a peripatetic music teacher was good training for her role.  Also outstanding was Pam Hutton, a newcomer to the society, playing the Mother Abbess with her inspiring performance particularly with the number “Climb Ev’ry Mountain”.  You could almost hear the proverbial pin drop in the Theatre – the audience was so quiet.

Mark Morris as Captain Georg Von Trapp was good in his role as the stern captain but was softened with the impact of Maria and his seven children. I enjoyed “Something Good” sung both by The Captain and Maria.  After that number romance was unstoppable.

Comedy and encouragement came from Noel Harris as Max Detweiler. Although not always supportive of the new regime he acquiesced in order to benefit from it. The drama of the era was vividly portrayed by Dave Wilkinson as Herr Zeller supported by Bradley Craig as Rolph Gruber. Rolph's softer side was seen in his singing of “16 going on 17” with Natalia Hawes as Liesl. As a final touch the presence of some chorus members as storm-troopers was a final reminder of the crisis at the start of the Second World War.

The orchestra of 26 musicians under the direction of Michael Lamb was well controlled and eminently listenable to. There seemed to be a full house on the evening I was present with a good attendance by younger people. These younger persons are the future of the Theatre.

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