The Sound Of Music
Regent's Park Open Air Theatre
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Reviewed on Tuesday 6th August 2013
The Sound Of Music sits beautifully in the Regents Park Open Air Theatre, providing a truly magical experience. It is hard to fault a single aspect of this production which is a treat for the entire family. The Sound Of Music is a timeless piece of theatre and it would be impossible to see this production without smiling and toe tapping throughout.
I had forgotten just how good Rodgers and Hammerstein's score is, despite not having seen the film for several years I knew practically every word to every song. I can't think of many other musicals which feature so many iconic musical numbers. The cast are phenomenal and sing the score the way it should be sung.
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| Charlotte Wakefield |
Charlotte Wakefield strikes the perfect balance between feistiness and naivety in her portrayal of Maria. Taking on such a well known role is no easy task but Charlotte shows no sign of holding back and has the voice of an angel.
It is a treat to see Michael Xavier back on stage and he makes quite an impression as Captain von Trapp. At first the character appears cold but Michael allows the audience to warm to him, using his charm and gentle wit.
A stand out performance comes from Helen Hobson as Mother Abbess who closes the first act with the most stunning and effortless rendition of Climb Ev'ry Mountain. It is interesting to see her once again star opposite Charlotte Wakefield (they recently played mother and daughter, Donna and Sophie, in the West End production of Mamma Mia), the pair's on-stage chemistry appears very natural and their duet 'My Favourite Things' is another highlight.
Caroline Keiff also shines as Elsa Schraeder, having seen her play Vivienne in Legally Blonde, she is scarily good at playing the the villain. Another stand out performance came from a pigeon who stormed the stage during Charlotte Wakefield's big entrance. The pigeon stole the first act as it marched across the stage while Wakefield was performing the musical's title number, much to the amusement of many distracted audience members.
The children who I saw as the Von Trapp Family were also outstanding, lead by the fantastic Faye Brookes as Liesl. Peter McKintosh's set and costume design is superb and the orchestra are wonderful, I just wish they weren't hidden away behind the stage!
For a joyas, family friendly evening at the theatre you must see The Sound Of Music. You are guaranteed to be left beaming from ear to ear and attempting to sing the songs as you leave the theatre and begin the walk to Bakers Street tube station.
Reviewed by Andrew Tomlins (Editor)
The Sound Of Music runs at the Regent's Park Open Air Theatre until 7th September 2013.
Click here to book tickets.
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Photo Credit: Johan Persson
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