Asheville Comes Alive with The Sound of Music
This holiday season, the charming city of Asheville is buzzing with excitement as the Asheville Community Theatre presents its stunning rendition of The Sound of Music. With a breathtaking opening scene featuring a group of nuns emerging from the darkness, each holding glowing candles, the stage is set for a night filled with devotion, strength, and an unforgettable showcase of perseverance. This delightful production is poised to captivate audiences right up until its final curtain on Sunday, December 22.
A Bumpy Start, But Unyielding Spirit
Naturally, the road to this performance hasn’t been entirely smooth. The original run of the show faced disruptions from Tropical Storm Helene, forcing the theatre to adapt and adjust the casting. Yet, through it all, the production has demonstrated remarkable resilience. Perched atop the picturesque hills of the Austrian Alps in 1938, we meet our spirited protagonist, Maria Rainer, portrayed by the lively Amanda Clifton. Maria finds herself torn between her love for the vibrant beauty around her and a restless yearning for a life beyond the abbey walls.
Maria’s Journey Begins
As a unique and somewhat rebellious young nun, Maria struggles to fit in with her more traditional sisters who don’t allow her to express herself through song without prior approval! When she’s given a day off from the abbey—a rare gift—Maria takes her guitar and sings to the mountains, bursting forth with the title song, a classic from the beloved Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II duo. This moment strikes a chord with the audience, exemplifying how music can bridge connections, convey emotions, and lift spirits in trying times.
Yet, as fate would have it, this communion with nature soon sends Maria rushing back to the abbey, where she’s met by the wise Mother Abbess, played by Naimah “Nemo” Coleman, who encourages her to spread her wings and leave the convent. This leads Maria to her next role as the governess for the seven children of the stern Captain Georg von Trapp, embodied by Kit Johnson.
A Family Transformed
The young von Trapp children—Zoe Zelonky, Elias Ritter, Ellie Brown, Kip McClure, Vivian Kominski, Ella Isner, and Ainsley McClure—steal the show with their electric performances, showcasing both immense talent and a serious dedication to their roles. Under the direction of Eli Cunningham, the children’s commitment transforms their rigid upbringing under Captain von Trapp into a joyous celebration of music and laughter.
Love Blooms Amidst Turmoil
As the story unfolds, Maria begins to thaw the Captain’s icy demeanor, and a spark of romance ignites, complicated by the presence of Elsa, played by Daniela Risquez. Maria finds herself navigating uncharted emotions—should she embrace this newfound passion or retreat from it? Meanwhile, a looming threat of Nazi power casts a shadow over Austria, forcing characters to confront their beliefs and choices.
A Musical Masterpiece
The chemistry between Clifton and Johnson blossoms on stage, pulling at heartstrings and evoking the tender magic of romance. Clifton’s portrayal of Maria is fresh and exciting, providing a unique twist on this iconic character that stands apart from Julie Andrews’ legendary performance in the 1965 film. Each song, carefully crafted under the watchful eye of Shua Scilex, echoes with perfection, drawing the audience deeper into the narrative.
A Few Hiccups on the Stage
However, despite the beautiful music and engaging performances, some technical elements of the production feel a bit out of place. While the grand staircase and scenic design by Jill Summers is impressive, certain details—like the color choices and costume inconsistencies—give it an unpolished feel at times. Yet, amidst these small missteps, the show retains its charm, striking a deep emotional chord with the audience.
The Heart of the Matter
In the end, The Sound of Music is more than just a happy holiday musical; it communicates a powerful message about resilience—the importance of persevering through the darkness toward one’s dreams. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a first-time viewer, the story reminds us that we can’t simply remain idle, waiting for happiness to find us. Instead, we must march boldly into life, much like Maria did.
Event Details
For anyone interested in experiencing this remarkable production firsthand, The Sound of Music will be showing at Asheville Community Theatre, located at 35 E. Walnut St. Performance dates run through Sunday, December 22. Shows are held on Fridays at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday at 2:30 p.m. Ticket prices range from $18 to $36.50.
Don’t miss the chance to enjoy this heartwarming tale that brings together the highs and lows of life, love, and musical magic right here in Asheville!
