The Alexandra Birmingham's ‘Stage Experience 2024’ production of The Sound of Music hit all the right notes—literally and figuratively—earning a standing ovation that filled the theatre with well-deserved applause. With a cast of extraordinarily talented 9-24 year olds, this production was a true showcase of rising stars, winning over the audience just as Maria eventually wins over Captain Von Trapp.
Everyone knows the classic story of The Sound of Music, and most can hum along to timeless tunes like "My Favorite Things" and "Do-Re-Mi." But this production brought something special, with every note sung to perfection by a cast clearly dedicated to their craft. With many of the main performers studying theatre, voice, or music performance at degree level, the vocal performances were nothing short of breathtaking.
Set in pre-World War II Austria, the story follows a young Maria (Holly Hopkins), who, despite her intentions of becoming a nun, finds her true calling in bringing music and love back into the lives of Captain Von Trapp (Cree Henson) and his seven children. Hopkins and Blair (Mother Abbess) captivated the audience with their infectious voices and commanding presence, leaving no doubt that these young talents are destined for professional stages.
Cree Henson led the Von Trapp family with a strong and heartfelt performance, but it was Bessy Hingley as Liesl who truly shone, delivering a performance full of charm and grace. Meanwhile, Molly Anne Bache stole scenes as the comic and captivating Elsa Schraeder, her impeccable timing making her a standout in a cast brimming with talent.
Taking on a musical as beloved as this is no small feat, especially for a youth cast. The Rodgers & Hammerstein score is as demanding as it is beautiful, and the cast's vocal delivery was its greatest triumph. If the acting and choreography had matched the vocal prowess, this production could easily rival professional performances. However, with such a large ensemble, there were moments where less might have been more—not every musical interlude needed a dance, and not every member of the ensemble needed to be involved in each scene.
The set design was both simple and effective, perfectly capturing the essence of the Austrian countryside. That said, the frequent blackouts between scenes, while functional, did slow the pacing somewhat. Despite this, the overall production quality, including the costumes, was impressive.
Ultimately, The Sound of Music at The Alexandra was a delightful surprise, even for those who might not traditionally be fans of the musical. The cast's enthusiasm was contagious, and their smiles lit up the stage—even during the Nazi invasion, which felt a bit odd but didn’t detract from the overall experience. If you’re in Birmingham this weekend, don't miss your chance to see this remarkable production. And if you can't make it, be sure to mark your calendar for Stage Experience 2025—I'll definitely be there!
The review of The Sound of Music beautifully captures the timeless charm and emotional depth of this classic musical. With its unforgettable songs and heartwarming story, the production remains a captivating experience that resonates with audiences of all ages. Learn how to create a Spotify Canvas video here: https://artistpush.me/blogs/news/spotify-canvas