Interview: Sheena Janson Kelley of THE SOUND OF MUSIC at Artistry Theater

 

What do you enjoy most about your role in the Sound of Music?

We're currently in rehearsals and this process has been so fulfilling. Being given space to play, invent, and re-discover the character of Maria is such an honor and I'm especially grateful to have the opportunity to spend extensive time with our young actors (the von Trapp children): they can make me laugh, recharge my battery and remind me to have fun! 

What is your favorite song in the sound of music?

Is it corny to say Edelweiss? Musically, it is so simple- with no big orchestrations to hide behind- but the messaging of loyalty and pride within the context of the show is heartbreaking and beautifully performed (by Rodolfo Nieto, playing Captain von Trapp) in our production. 

What is your favorite moment in the sound of music?

In the story, there are so many.  I was introduced to the movie a long time ago and have the montage of the children and Maria traversing through the town in their "new play clothes" ingrained in my memory. As a kid, I always wished a governess like Maria would come and whisk me and my sisters away; and we would ride our bikes and sing songs as loud as we could without a care in the world. 

But in this show, I am so moved by Climb Every Mountain: I consider myself so lucky to be able to listen to Susan Hofflander (playing the Mother Abbess) sing a beautiful rendition of this song every night during the run of this show.  

What do you hope audiences take away from seeing this production?

I know that many in my generation and older have a nostalgic connection to this story's music, but I also hope that after seeing our production, audiences can recognize the fortitude and grit- as our director Max Wojtanowicz continually reminds us to honor the courageous acts of these characters, which are ultimately fueled by sheer will. 

What are your favorite local spots?

I don't go out much...but when I do, my husband and I love to go to restaurants: some recent favorites of ours are Sanjusan, Meritage, Bauhaus Brewery and Wakame. We also love to partake in bar bingo, meat raffles and trivia!  

Thank you Sheena for your time.

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