Faced with the diminutive challenges of the Fallon House in Columbia, the direction, designers, lighting, and cast produced, without fail, one of the best renditions of Rodgers & Hammerstein's Sound of Music I have seen in years.
Maria, played by Rhyn Saver, danced and sung her heart out all the while utilizing small gestures and facial expressions that gave a fun new twist to a character of a different generation, bringing laughter and, at times, tears to a packed house with an audience ranging from 5 to 90.
But a chord was struck deep inside of me when Mother Abbess, played by Victoria Strong, belted out 'Climb Every Mountain'. Her voice so pure, her message so clear, the tears streamed down my face. I found myself waiting for another scene with her in it just to hear her voice once again.
Max Detweiler, played by Drew Boudreau, was the epitome of the over ambitious music promoter with tons of energy and desire for fame but little money to back it. His movements quick, yet smooth, had one picturing a man always in motion.
And of course the whole cast of von Trapp children, each part played perfectly. But the surprise was the voice that came forth from young Jaymie Jackson who played Friedrich von Trapp, clear and rich filled with emotion and promise.
This is a must see.
For play times and dates visit http://www.sierrarep.org/