I attended the Mirvish production of The Sound of Music last night at Toronto’s Princess of Wales theatre. To say that it was fantastic would be an enormous understatement. I loved it! The pressure was certainly on for this talented cast. It may have been a challenge to live up to the standards set by the incomparable cast of the classic, Oscar-winning 1965 film but everyone in last night’s performance rose admirably to the occasion.
I was excited to see how the film translated to the stage and all I can say is Wow! The set design was incredible, swiftly, almost imperceptibly, changing from one scene to the next. From the famous hills and mountains that steal Maria’s heart to the abbey and of course, Captain Von Trapp’s extravagant home, everything was pure perfection. The sweeping staircase, where the children sing So Long, Farewell, is grand and every detail is exquisite from the white silk sofa and chairs in the living room to the gorgeous fabric of the drapes hanging in Maria’s bedroom – you know the ones …
The set was so wonderful and intoxicating, I often forgot I was in a theatre, merely a spectator, but rather felt as though I’d pulled up a chair on the lavish Von Trapp estate. The voices of each cast member were distinct and beautiful. During the opening scene, the nuns of the abbey walk through the aisles of the theatre and as each one passed me, their voices became so clear and I heard each glorious one individually. It was a magical start to an incredible show.
I don’t want to reveal too much for those of you who’ve not seen it. But if you have the chance, do go. You will love it and will be transported back in time; not just to pre-war Austria but to the days of your childhood when you first watched this timeless and touching story on film.
Below are a few photos of the show. And if this gets you in the mood to catch a show, click here to buy tickets and learn more about the show.
Have you seen the show? Leave your comments! I’d love to know your thoughts!
