Recently attended a community production of The Sound of Music on stage. The impressive cast was accompanied by a full orchestra, well-designed sets, professional lighting, and constant attention to sound balancing. It was an exciting and profound performance and reminded me of how all the elements came together to form one of the greatest musicals in history--The Sound of Music!
Before I go on, I will give a nod to those naysayers who find the musical to be sappy, cheesy, fluffy, and weak in substance and reality. The beauty of the setting, the bad guys takeover, the family that started singing again, the escape over the mountains helped by nuns, the cute children, the wealthy captain, the sudden love, it all is a bit much for those who prefer grittier, realistic fare. But those of you who reference it as The Sound of Mucus, your opinions are your own and do not do justice to this masterpiece of emotional expression, artistic achievement, and lyrical musical writing.
Having seen the movie over a dozen times, conducted 15 performances, and played horn on 8 performances, I am quite familiar with the similarities and differences between the film and the stage versions. The film is an improvement although I do enjoy the musical nuns in the stage version. But the puppet show on Lonely Goatherd is marvelous and definitely missed in the stage version. The drama and the love story is not quite as defined in the stage version and we are never sure if the Captain left Frau Schrader due to loving Maria or disagreement with her politics. Edelweiss takes on greater symbolism in the film and the lines are generally smoother without ambiguity.
Yet no matter whether one sees the movie or the live production, it is a winner. Terrific songs with harmonic interest, engaging melodies, clever lyrics, and demanding vocal ranges. A story of love, family, Nazis, history, joy, fear, and hints of religion, politics, beauty, parenting, stubbornness, mischievous, and finally courage. It has all the elements needed for success with the film including outstanding performances in acting and singing. Only the coldest of hearts can ignore the "you brought music back into the house." Or the rich song "Something Good." All these and more make Sound of Music timeless and a musical for all ages. There is something in it for everyone, perhaps a tension or a song that hits the spot.
So even you tired of Sound of Music people out there owe it to yourself to go see the stage version and watch the movie. It is one of those musicals that makes the world a better place and will put a smile on your face and a little warmth in your heart. Toss out the cynicism and enjoy it for what it is...pure joy and meaning.
