On the heels of tackling Charlie & the Chocolate Factory in 2015, the 2016 edition of the annual showcase of talented Middle Schoolers is a doozy, as the players take on the beloved Sound of Music. Performances are set for Feb. 26 at 7:30pm and Feb. 27 at 1:30pm and 7:30pm at the Middle School gymnasium.
The legendary Rodgers & Hammerstein musical is based on the memoir of Maria von Trapp, The Story of the Trapp Family Singers. Set in Austria on the eve of the Anschluss in 1938, it tells the story of Maria, who takes a job as governess to a large family while she decides whether to become a nun. She falls in love with the children, and eventually their widowed father, Captain von Trapp. He is ordered to accept a commission in the German navy, but he opposes the Nazis. He and Maria decide on a plan to flee Austria with the children.
The play is most widely known for its collection of songs that have long become standards, including “Edelweiss“, “My Favorite Things“, “Climb Ev’ry Mountain“, “Do-Re-Mi,“, obviously “The Sound of Music” itself.
“The performance promises many creative twists and turns that will keep you on the edge of your seat and entertained,” according to Cabaret producers.
Started by Middle School music/choral director Jessica Nicholson in the wake of the 2011 retirement of longtime middle school musical director Joan Deamer, the annual Mill Valley Middle School Cabaret is an all-ages show featuring a cast and crew of approximately 100 students who auditioned to be singers, dancers, and actors; or applied to be stage managers, set designers, costume designers, makeup artists, lighting assistants, and sound assistants. The musical is directed, produced, and choreographed by a team of creative professionals with the help of student input. There are three school performances for the entire student body, followed by two evening performances and one matinee for the public.
Funding for this production is partially provided by Kiddo!, ticket sales, bake sales, and private donations. All tickets proceeds go towards the Mill Valley Middles School Drama Department.
The 411: Public performances of The Sound of Music are set for Friday, Feb. 26 at 7:30pm and Saturday, Feb. 27 at 1pm and 7:30pm at the Mill Valley Middle School Gymnasium. Tickets are $20 for adults, $10 for students and $35 for reserved seats. Buy tickets and get more info.