Review: THE SOUND OF MUSIC - A Beautiful Pleasant Show

The Sound of Music is a timeless classic piece of musical theatre. It spans generations and has brought life and laughter to families for over 50 years. It's a story of human triumph over evil, of love, sacrifice, raising children and of belief. It has all the ingredients for a story to tap into our souls and remind us that in the face of real adversity there is always light, there is always a way to overcome the challenge.

The London Palladium production of The Sound of Music captures these elements of the story and tells it in a special way. While there is nothing particularly lavish or thrilling about Jeremy Sams' 2006 London Palladium Production, Robert Jones' design and overall aesthetic still function as an aid to the story. The focus is on the people. On their connections, their lives and their story.

At the heart of this story is Amy Lehpamer's Maria. Lehpamer finds the subtle balance between heart and humour. Her scenes with the children are some of the finest in the show. Though her scenes with Cameron Daddo (Captain Von Trapp) lack any hint of chemistry overall Lehpamer is a real treat as Maria, her voice pristine and effortless. While Daddo's vocals are not his forte, his presence and poise as Von Trapp is spot on. He is a nicer Von Trapp than perhaps what we are accustomed. The angrier military side of the character is rarely sighted with Daddo electing to navigate the character in a softer direction. Jacqueline Dark as the Mother Abbess is vocally perfect. Her rendition of Climb Every Mountain and its reprise are everything you could hope for and more. Stefanie Jones as Lisel is ideal in the role of the young ingénue while Marina Prior and David James as Baroness Schrader and Max Detweiler bring charm and charisma to the musical.

While this production of The Sound of Music won't wow you, as we've grown accustomed to more and more with contemporary musicals it is a very beautiful piece of theatre. It is sung beautifully, designed with its story at the forefront and handled with love and care. It's the perfect show for anyone who grew up with the musical, or the 1965 film adaption, or for anyone that has a love of the golden age of musical theatre.

Venue: Regent Theatre, Melbourne

Season: From 13 May 2016

Performance Times: Tues-Sat 7.30pm, Wed 1.00pm, Sat 2.00pm, Sun 12noon and 5.30pm

Price: Tickets from $79.90*

Bookings: soundofmusictour.com.au or phone 1300 111 011

Groups 12+ 1300 889 278