THE SOUND OF MUSIC Comes to Steel River Playhouse

by Patricia Bradford

Winner of 5 Tony Awards, including Best Musical, THE SOUND OF MUSIC –one of the world’s most beloved entertainments– is a heartwarming, true story of family, love and survival. A major Broadway hit and an Oscar-winning film which raised the show to world-wide popularity, the play will grace the holiday stage of the Steel River Playhouse, 245 E. High Street, Pottstown, from December 4th through 14th.
This final collaboration between the legendary team of Richard Rodgers (music) & Oscar Hammerstein III (lyrics) tells the story of Maria Rainer who temporarily left her convent training to serve as governess for the children of a widowed Austrian officer, Georg Von Trapp, with whom she finds true love. Their joy is unsettled, however, by the Nazi presence in their homeland leading them to seek freedom through the hills of Maria’s youth. The favorable reviews of the New York press proclaimed it “the loveliest musical imaginable.” The show has, since its original production, received two Broadway revivals, the most recent during the 1998-99 season.

In addition to the contributions of Rodgers and Hammerstein, the show features a book by Howard Lindsay and Russel Crouse. Steel River’s production is directed by SRP Artistic Director Gene Terruso with musical direction being handled by Heidi Starr. Choreography is by Stace Michaud, Scenic Design by Chris Whelan, Lighting by Jerry Jonas and Costumes by Ally Boughter. The cast includes Abigail Allwein (Maria), Andrew Skitko (Captain), Sharon Eyster (Mother Abbess), Megan Eckley (Baroness), Amanda Morell (Sister Margaretta), Emilie Reimer (Sister Sophie), Kathryn Tilley (Sister Berthe), Payson Burt (Franz), Kristin Weigand (Frau Schmidt), Katie Stahl (Liesl), Michael Styer (Rolf) and Ben Fried (Max). The Von Trapp children will be portrayed by Trent Soto, Jocelyn Shank, Wyeth Casperite, Jordan McAndrew, Charleston O’Donnell, Isabella Yackanicz, Olivia Reitz and Carly Silberman. A strong ensemble features Lilea Burt, Philip Seader, Charles Delaney, Jim McAndrew, Susan Lowry, Olivia Swenson, Lindsay Lohr, Gena Silberman and Tina Kissinger.

Tickets are $15 – $27 and are available online at www.steelriver.org, or by calling the Box Office at 610-970-1199. Please note that Sunday, December 14th is already sold out, so book NOW to ensure you will be able to get your first choice of dates! Please plan to stay for a talkback with the Director and cast after the opening night’s performance on Thursday, December 4th. You can choose your seat when you book online, so buy your tickets early to get the best choice!

About Steel River Playhouse
Steel River Playhouse is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) charitable education and performance facility that seeks to strengthen community, inspire creative exploration, educate, and entertain, through the presentation of quality performing arts events and education for diverse audiences. Designated as a “gateway” performing arts center, Steel River provides affordable, high quality performances, comprehensive educational offerings, and enriching volunteer opportunities in all aspects of theatre arts. The organization embraces emerging and established artists, and supports community by serving as a magnet destination for economic development and a platform for shared experiences by diverse audiences. Students and volunteers of all ages and backgrounds are encouraged to explore and grow their skills by working side-by-side with professional instructors, performers, directors, and designers.

Theater/Organization Steel River Playhouse
Theater/Organization Website: http://www.steelriver.org

Theater/Organization Address: 245 East High Street Pottstown, Pennsylvania 19464 (Map It)
Theater/Organization Phone: (610)970-1199

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