The Greenwood Little Theatre must have done something right to draw a full house for Thursday night’s opening of “The Sound of Music.”
From the elaborate set and authentic costumes to the well-cast roles and a traditional Austrian dance, every detail was taken care of.
But it was Rebecca Durden Seawright of New Albany as Maria who stole the show.
Although Maria may not have returned to the Abby, the GLT is lucky to have talent like Seawright grace her hometown stage once more.
A beautiful singer in her own right, Seawright didn’t pretend to recreate the Julie Andrews sound. Instead, she used her vocal and acting talents to breathe new life into familiar songs and a high energy role.
But it was not just the stage actors who helped bring the lyrics to life.
Besides weaving the song lyrics throughout the costumes, props and even script, nothing could be more unforgettable about the evening than the audience singing “Edelweiss” as the von Trapp family prepared to flee Austria.
The audience was also happy to join in on the fun as they cheered and clapped during the pretend festival.
But it was GLT staple and Captain von Trapp, Ted MacIntosh, who won the heart of the audience and Maria with his performance of the traditional Austrian dance the Landler and singing talents.
It showed a side of MacIntosh that hadn’t been seen before and brought charm to the love story.
The dancing didn’t stop there. It was the von Trapp children who didn’t miss a step as they sang and danced throughout the entire performance without losing a spec of energy - even little Gretl played by Courtney Myers Burgess.
The nuns played by Helen Sanders, Denise Young, Becky Palmer and Dorothy Gates, showcased some of the impeccable talent even a small theater can find in its community.
By far, the most demanding role is performed by Paul Brown, who plays the piano through almost the entire two and a half hour production.
Performances will be at 7:30 p.m. tonight and Saturday and at 2 p.m. Sunday.
Tickets and season passes can be purchased at the door but reservations are recommended.
For more information or to reserve seats, call Patrice Peacock at (662) 392-0844 or visit the Greenwood Little Theatre Web site at www.greenwoodlittletheatre.com.
