Beloved songs and Courage against Malicious Forces (JCC CenterStage)

The Sound of Music 

Music by Richard Rodgers 

Lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II 

Book by Howard Lindsay and Russel Crouse 

Directed by Alex Roby  A Review by Regina Harris

Entire contents are copyright @2025 by Regina Harris. All rights reserved. 

Rodgers and Hammerstein's The Sound of Music opened to a packed house Thursday at CenterStage, it's soaring vocals and lush orchestration filling the intimate stage. But beneath the beloved songs and charming characters lies a timely message about finding courage and resisting loss of freedom when compliance to malicious forces seems easiest. Under director Alex Robey's thoughtful guidance, every cast member glowed, with the young actors in particular giving remarkably strong performances. 

Amongst the rather large cast of 23 Actors-at least eight of whom are children or young adults-there was not one weak performance in the production-nor one dry eye in the house. Opening with the sweeping orchestral music beautifully conducted by John Austin Clark, the Orchestra set an expectation for the exquisite music to come. The cloister choir voices blended in pure, heavenly perfection, added to pleasantly by Shaune Rebilas as Sister Berthe. Especially noteworthy in the convent choir was Natalie Minton as the Mother Abbess whose powerful and luminous rendition of "Climb Ev'ry Mountain" was nothing short of unforgettable. In stepping out of her usual role as Director of Arts and Ideas/CenterStage,

Erin Silliman captivated as Maria with her luminous voice, genuine warmth, and commanding stage presence bringing fresh life to a role that audiences have cherished for decades. Chris Gatterdam brought warmth and depth in his heartfelt portrayal of Captain Von Trapp. Counterpointing the Captain's seriousness Jordan Price as music promoter and "professional sponge" Max Detwiler was a delight, bringing just the right mix of humor and charm with an underlying unease about his relationship to the new regime. 

The Sound of Music is such a well-loved show that it can survive uneven performances, but that was not the case Thursday night. Each actor from the eldest to the youngest, held their own with strength and heart. Of the young cast members from Madeline Durst as the almost-grown Liezel to Jane Berry as endearing little Gretel, each was a delight. Billie Price brought playful charm as prankster Louisa; Kayia Peterson gave heart to the oft-overlooked Kurt; Kate Angermeier and Olivia Knapke as endearing Brigitta and Marta, respectively; and William Paxton as the sadly misdirected Rolf delivered some of the finest performances by young actors you'll see anywhere. However, it was young Levi Tasman as Friedrich whose pitch perfect vocals stood out especially. But then, super talented kids are always the case at CenterStage. 

With its talented cast, soaring vocals and timeless story, CenterStage's heartfelt production of The Sound of Music is a profound experience in our current trying times, bringing a bit of beauty to counter the anxiety. Do yourself a favor and experience this uplifting and unforgettable production, surely to become one of your favorite things! 

The Sound of Music  CenterStage at the Trager Family JCC

August 16, 21, 23 @ 7:30 pm 

August 17, 24 @ 2:00 pm 

3600 Dutchman's Lane 

Louisville, KY 40205 

(502) 238-2729 

www.jartsideas@jewishlouisville.org