Review: THE SOUND OF MUSIC National Tour - Breathing Fresh Life Into A Timeless Masterpiece

There's something truly divine about THE SOUND OF MUSIC, which has become a pillar of musical theatre for over 56 years. A brand new touring production of this beloved musical waltzed into The Ohio Theatre on Tuesday night starring Kerstin Anderson as Maria, Ben Davis as Captain Von Trapp, and Ashley Brown as The Mother Abbess. Directed by three-time Tony Award winner Jack O'Brien, this spirited and romantic story of Maria and the Von Trapp Family has survived generations of modern day musicals, capturing the hearts of audiences with its nostalgia and charm.

In this revival, Director Jack O'Brien brings talented, young, fresh faces to the principal roles, and offers touches of real humanity by "tear[ing] off the varnish of the past and reveal[ing] one of the great, fresh glories of musical theater, " O'Brien says. The result? A brilliantly constructed timeless masterpiece with new life that all ages will enjoy.

Capturing Maria's infectious energy is newcomer Kerstin Anderson, who fits the role with a naive, natural grace and youthful, relatable appeal. Her voice is equally impressive as it soars with a lovely soprano that captures the hearts of all.

Ben Davis is dynamic and charismatic in his role as Captain Von Trapp. Although a younger casting choice (which makes him perfectly matched with his counterpart) he still maintains the stern, disciplinary father figure. We appreciate his struggle as he tries to connect with his children and in turn pulls at our heartstrings. His rendition of "Edelweiss" is gut-wrenching as his rich, baritone voice fills the theatre with raw emotion.

Broadway's Ashley Brown is "practically perfect" as The Mother Abbess, creating a complex sibling-like relationship with Maria. At times, the dynamic between her and Maria seem a bit immature; however, her voice is sensational, and "Climb Ev'ry Mountain" will leave you breathless in your seats, creating a powerful and lasting impression.

Adding to the three lead powerhouses are also the children, who are memorable in their own right. Liesl (Paige Silvester), Friedrich (Jeremy Michael Lanuti), Louisa (Maria Suzanne Knasel), Kurt (Quinn Erickson), Brigitta (Svea Elizabeth Johnson), Marta (Mackenzie Currie) and the adorable Gretl (Audrey Bennett) all give wonderful performances and depict their age appropriately. I especially liked the outspoken Brigitta (Svea Elizabeth Johnson) and the "Sixteen Going on Seventeen" duet between vulnerable Liesl (Paige Silverster) and Rolf (Dan Tracy), who both portrayed the scene with gawky teen innocence that culminated into a steamy kiss.

Merlin Foard as Max Detweiler offers great comedic timing with a lovable charm. The rest of the featured cast, including: Teri Hansen (Elsa Schraeder), Darren Matthias (Butler Franz), Donna Garner (Frau Schmidt), Carey Rebecca Brown (Sister Berthe), Julia Osborne (Sister Margaretta), Elisabeth Evans (Sister Sophia), and Brent Schindele (Nazi Herr Zeller) all offered stellar performances in their respective roles.

Scenic designer Douglas W. Schmidt, Jane Greenwood's costumes, and Natasha Katz's lighting design bring brilliant life to this old classic with rich, vibrant color and intricate work.

Kudos as well to choreographer Danny Mefford and Music Supervisor Andy Einhorn who help keep the pace moving swiftly throughout, especially given the sometimes heaviness of this show.

Easily one of the most familiar and loved family musicals of all time, the new North American tour of Rodgers' and Hammerstein's THE SOUND OF MUSIC stands the generational test of time with fresh, vibrant energy, yet maintains its glorious authenticity under the skillful direction of Jack O'Brien.

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THE SOUND OF MUSIC National Tour runs thru Sunday, January 31st at The Ohio Theatre. For tickets or more information, visit: www.capa.com.

Photo Credit: Matthew Murphy

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