Photo Coverage: THE SOUND OF MUSIC International Tour Finds Cast of Kids

Manila, Philippines--Last May, UK-based choreographer Jonny Bowles, who is also the resident children's director of the international touring company of the London Palladium production of "The Sound of Music," visited Manila on a mission: whittle down 400 talented kids to 18 who auditioned for the roles of the von Trapp children.

"We were looking for kids whose dancing and singing skills are of exceptionally high standard," Bowles told a select group of reporters who dropped by at the auditions.

"It's always a wonderful thing to bring new children to a local city," said Bowles. "They add a special element to the production. They keep the show fresh, especially to the adult actors on stage."

At a press launch earlier this month, the young ones who made the cut were officially introduced, along with the show's star Carmen Pretorius who plays Maria von Trapp.

These young discoveries come from different parts of the country--from nearby Makati City to as far as Negros Occidental. Meet the new von Trapp children: (Friedrich) Orenci Ken Soleta from Binangonan, Rizal, Kyle Robert Robert Rafanan from Talisay City, Negros Occidental, Joseph Alexander Leggatt from Binan, Laguna; (Louisa) Gwyneth Jearei Dorado from Pasig City, Quinn O' Hara from Binan, Laguna, Angelica Mabuting from Malolos Bulacan; (Kurt) Tony Gil Emilio Cortez from Pasig City, Dean Adhiel Angelia from Noveleta, Cavite, James Christian Hess from Makati City; (Brigitta) Krystal Brimmer from Laguna, Rayne Yssibel Cortez from Pasig City, Sophia Isabella Reyes from Marikina City; (Marta) Samantha Lagman from Santa Ana, Manila, Leani Columna from Las Pinas, Princess Aliyah Rabara from Marilao, Bulacan, and (Gretl) Jia Ruth Lauren Condino from Taguig City, Alysha Mari Africa from Paranaque City, and Faline Dorado from Pasig City.

In partnership with Globe Live, Lunchbox Theatrical Productions, Concertus Manila, and David Atkins Enterprises bring Andrew Lloyd Webber, David Ian, and The Really Useful Group's critically-acclaimed London Palladium production of Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II's beloved family musical "The Sound of Music" to The Theatre at Solaire from September 27 to October 15.

The original London Palladium production of "The Sound of Music" (2006) played 954 performances and was seen by over 200 million people.

To buy tickets (P1,500-P7,000), visit TicketWorld.com.ph.

Photos: John Angelo Sergio, Oliver Oliveros