By CHAYCE GIDDENS
Beakon Staff Writer
The hills—or rather, the Cardinal Mooney auditorium—are about to come alive with The Sound of Music.
Students take the stage to perform the beloved musical, originally directed by Robert Wise in 1965. The production runs March 14-16 and promises a mix of heart, history, and unforgettable music.
Featuring a cast of talented young actors, the show tells a timeless story of love, resilience, and family.
According to The Sound of Music’s official website, the musical follows Maria Kutschera, a former nun who becomes the governess for the von Trapp children. She later marries Captain Georg von Trapp, and together, they form a family choir. As the Nazi regime tightens its grip on Austria, the von Trapps flee to the United States, chasing their musical dreams.
“The Sound of Music is a story about love, resilience, and staying true to what you believe in, even in difficult times,” theater adviser Stephanie Chizmar said. “It reminds us of the power of music to bring people together and the importance of family, courage, and standing up for what is right. I think audiences will walk away feeling inspired by the strength of the von Trapp family and the beauty of the music that carries them through their journey.”
Senior Alexa Vargo, who plays Maria Rainer, says she relates to the character’s warm and free-spirited personality.
“She kind of resembles me—she’s bubbly, she’s loud, and she’s optimistic,” Vargo said. “She’s a good leader and great with kids, and so am I. I’d like to be a teacher.”
Alongside powerful performances, audiences can expect all the show-stopping moments that make The Sound of Music a classic.
“Viewers can expect a beautiful blend of memorable songs, heartfelt moments, and stunning performances from our talented students,” Chizmar said. “The show is filled with classic numbers like Do-Re-Mi, My Favorite Things, and Edelweiss, which bring the story to life. There’s also a mix of humor, romance, and suspense, making it a truly engaging experience for audiences of all ages.”
For some students, the show is more than just another school production.
“The original movie has always been symbolic in my life,” Vargo said. “I have been in every single play and musical here since my freshman year, and getting the lead role means a lot to me. It is my dream role.”
Rehearsals have been in full swing since January, with students pouring their energy into every note and scene.
“We started rehearsals in early January, and our students have been working incredibly hard since then,” Chizmar said. “From learning music and choreography to perfecting their character portrayals, it has been a rewarding journey. Their dedication and passion really shine through in this production.”
Don’t miss The Sound of Music, running March 14-16 at the Cardinal Mooney auditorium. Come out, support the hardworking students, and experience a show filled with heart, history, and unforgettable melodies. Tickets are available here!
