Central Christian presenting ‘The Sound of Music’ March 6-9
Director Christa J. Wolf, in pink, works with Central Christian students on the ballroom dancing scene from “The Sound of Music,” which will be performed March 6-9 at the school.
March can be a dreary month, often marked by cloudy skies and rainy days. Fortunately, Central Christian School is offering a bright escape from the gloom with its upcoming production of “The Sound of Music,” set to run March 6-9.
Based on the true story of the Von Trapp Family Singers, who fled Austria to escape the Nazis, “The Sound of Music” has long been cherished worldwide. The musical earned a Grammy Award in 1960 for Best Musical Show Album and ranked fourth on the American Film Institute’s list of the 25 Greatest Musical Films of All Time in 2006.
The story follows Maria Rainer, a spirited young postulant at Nonnberg Abbey who is sent to serve as governess for seven children in the strict household of Capt. Georg Von Trapp. Bringing music and joy into the lives of the Von Trapp children, Maria eventually falls in love with the captain. Choosing marriage over the convent, she joins the family in a daring escape from the Nazis, using a musical performance as a clever ruse.
“‘The Sound of Music’ is one of the most beloved musicals of all time, and a lot of students requested that we perform it,” Director Christa J. Wolf said. “Central’s music program is outstanding, and it’s been over 20 years since we last staged this show, so the timing was perfect.”
When word spread that “The Sound of Music” would be the spring musical, more than 50 students auditioned.
“With 52 cast members, casting was challenging, as was finding ways to showcase their talents meaningfully,” Wolf said. “Designing a set that accommodates such a large cast, is safe and functional, and allows for numerous scene changes was also a significant task.”
Wolf is working alongside a production team including Hannah Steiner as vocal music coordinator, Tim Shue as orchestra conductor, Kelly Morber on costumes and Alexandra Slabaugh as scenic design coordinator. Ellen (Miller) Rohrer, who played Maria the last time Central staged “The Sound of Music,” is lending her expertise in choreography.
“It’s been challenging to learn such familiar songs because of the small changes and several new additions,” said Jude Patterson, who plays Max, a close friend of Capt. Von Trapp. “However, our awesome Music Directors Tim Shue and Hannah Steiner have made the process much more manageable.”
Wolf praised the cast’s dedication. “The depth of vocal and performance talent is outstanding. Many cast members go above and beyond by taking private voice or music lessons to hone their craft. Their dedication is incredible.”
Senior Aiva Prebynski, who plays Frau Schmidt, the Von Trapp housekeeper, is eager to take the stage. “I’m excited about the adrenaline rush that comes from performing in front of a big crowd,” she said. “I think ‘The Sound of Music’ will get a great reaction from the audience.”
Gyeol Yoo, an international student playing Capt. Von Trapp, expressed admiration for his character. “This story is beloved worldwide, and I wanted to be part of it. Capt. Von Trapp loves his country and his family, even if he seems strict at first. I love characters who commit themselves to what they love, so I’m grateful for this role,” Yoo said.
Wolf emphasized the power of live theater to bring people together. “This is the kind of show you can feel good about bringing the whole family to,” she said. “The story is inspiring, and it will be brought to life beautifully through the live pit orchestra, amazing vocalists and stunning visuals. The students are excited to present this play as their gift to the community.”
Performances will be March 6-8 at 7 p.m. and March 9 at 2 p.m. at the Central Christian School Performing Arts Center, 3970 Kidron Road, Kidron. Tickets, priced between $10 and $12, can be purchased online at www.ccscomets.org or by calling the school at 330-857-7311.