REVIEW: "The Sound of Music" in Bloomington

Performance: Wednesday, December 23rd @ 2:00pm

Location: Buskirk-Chumley Theater, Bloomington, IN

The Cardinal Stage Company's holiday choice of The Sound of Music, was not initially a production that I had planned to attend; however, I realized that with as many times as I have watched the movie, I have never seen a stage production. The familiar songs that most who love musical theatre have grown up with can be an easy enticement to an afternoon matinee.

There are numerous delightful moments that can be highlighted from this production; most of which would not have been the same without Melissa Bohon (Maria) and the von Trapp children, Rachel Faulkner (Liesl), Nick Heinzen (Friedrich), CeCe Underwood (Luisa), Henry Kathman (Kurt), Zoe Reed (Brigitta), Maya Grekin (Marta), and last, but definitely not least Marlena Wagschal (Gretl). Bohon, who was seen in the national touring company of Wicked (Left below) and the original Broadway revival cast of Fiddler on the Roof, captured the endearing innocence and gentle bond that Maria has with the von Trapp children. "Do-Re-Mi" and "The Lonely Goatherd" were amongst my favorite moments between Maria and the children, the standout of whom was Reed (Brigitta). The sparkle in her eye never dimmed and she captured the essence of sweet Brigitta, who always seems to know the happenings of the house.

I saw only one significant mistep in the casting of this production. Daniel Narducci (Captain von Trapp), while well known for his live stage performance, recordings, documentaries, and television, felt stiff and unbelievable throughout the performance. While he possesses beautiful voice, I felt his ability to absorb the character of Captain von Trapp was limited. As as result, his performance felt very one dimensional and it was difficult to see how or why Maria might fall in love with him. Bohn and Narducci are seen below.

Perhaps as a result of my holiday spirit, or my giddiness over buying tickets to two Broadway shows in New York, I did very much enjoy The Sound of Music experience. I hope to see Cardinal Stage Company continue to bring in national talent, as well as showcasing the talent of the local community.