Approximately 50 middle school and high school cast members perform The Sound of Music this weekend at Benjamin Logan High School. (EXAMINER PHOTO | MANDY LOEHR)
From that inspiring moment when Maria sings about the hills being alive with music to a family’s courageous escape over those hills, The Sound of Music has been a stage and film favorite since the 1960s. Now a new generation is bringing it to life when Benjamin Logan High School (BLHS), with help from the middle school, presents the classic musical this weekend.
The captivating show takes center stage on Friday, March 1, and Saturday, March 2, at 7 p.m., with a special matinee performance at 2 p.m. on Saturday. Theatre enthusiasts can purchase tickets online by following the box office link at hs.benjaminlogan.org.
Based loosely on the true story of Maria Rainer and the von Trapp family, the Rodgers and Hammerstein collaboration first hit the stage in 1959. It tells the story of a young and impetuous nun-in-training who is sent to serve as governess to the seven children of Captain Georg von Trapp.
The BLHS production features approximately 50 students from the high school and middle school. A 22-member orchestra comprised of students, alumni and community members will accompany them.
Besides the title song, the production includes one cherished number after another, like “Climb Ev’ry Mountain,” “My Favorite Things” and “Do-Re-Mi.”
Senior Hannah Phillips leads the cast as Maria with fellow senior Mason Welty starring as the captain. Phillips has a long-running love for the show, and not just as a performer.
“As a kid growing up, I always watched The Sound of Music,” Phillips said. “When I would get scared at night, I would do just as Maria did—sing to myself until I was no longer scared.”
Portraying the von Trapp children are Savannah Pugh, senior, as Liesl; DeLaney Ratleff, sophomore, as Louisa; Paxton Henry, sophomore, as Friedrich; Kate Hahn, junior, as Brigitta; Levi Franjesevic, seventh grade, as Kurt; Nora Nicholson, eighth grade, as Marta; and Kennedy Appelfeller, seventh grade, as Gretl.
Other standout performances in this large cast come from juniors Tyler Barnes (Max Detweiller) and Rylie Thomas (Mother Abbess) along with sophomores Holden Zehner (Rolf) and Greyson Wagoner (Elsa). Several students are helping backstage, including stage manager Laykin Thomas, a junior.
According to Phillips, the cast has spent countless hours preparing for this production. Not only will it show the audience the level of talent at BLHS and provide an enjoyable night of music and dancing, but, she promises, you’ll “feel like a kid again!”
The play is directed by Michael Dove and Maggie Bowlby. Dove also designed the set. Myles Bowers serves as orchestra conductor.
Contact Benjamin Logan High School for more information.