Stage Experience showcases the very best of West Midlands young theatrical talent aged 9 to 24 who work alongside a professional creative team led by the formidable director and choreographer Pollyann Tanner. You’ve almost certainly seen the film version of The Sound Of Music, and you’ve definitely heard some of the songs. High expectations consequently proceed this adaptation, and it succeeds in surpassing every one of them.
Set in Austria in 1938, prior to the country being taken over by Nazi Germany; the scenery effectively transports us from an Abbey, fit with singing nuns, to the famous hills and decadence and grandeur of Captain Von Trapp’s estate. Cree Henson is pitch perfect as the stern head of the family, marshalling his seven children, who are all very well cast and shine individually in their roles. Into their life waltzes the free-spirited Maria (Molly Hopkins) with her adoration of music a contrast to the children’s life of military discipline. Hopkins is the perfect Maria and brings warmth, likeability, and a beautiful singing voice to the role. It is easy to see why the family come to adore her, and equally to share her love for the sound of music. It only takes one song to make the Captain fall, and there is electric chemistry between the two throughout, which peaks in the second act.
There is so much to enjoy in this stellar production, and there are many standout performances throughout. The songs are extremely demanding, yet Rebecca MacGregor-Black as Sister Berthe handles this with aplomb. As the elegant Elsa Schraeder, Molly Ann Bache excels, as does Kieran Powell as the opportunistic Max Detweiler. As the quick witted Brigitta, Sophie Ballentyne is a true star, and her love of theatre is paramount to her effortless performance. Apparent also, was the way in which The Sound of Music’s themes were handled with sensitivity and care. Striking the right balance between the comedic and political tones of this production is not easy, but this was particularly well done.
This was a faultless production in my eyes and rivals the professional productions gracing the Alexandra’s stage. If you want to catch some of tomorrows stars today, then book yourself a ticket to the utterly joyous The Sound of Music.
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