Event Review-----THE SOUND OF MUSIC in Concert at Carnegie Hall

Anyone who knows me well knows that I have a deep affection for THE SOUND OF MUSIC. I love the stage play, flaws and all, I love the score, and the movie is my all time favorite film. I am a pretty easy audience for this classic musical. I always seem to be able to find a small piece of magic in even the worst productions. A few months ago, I read that there was going to be a one night only Concert Version of THE SOUND OF MUSIC at Carnegie Hall on Tuesday, April 24. A few seasons ago, I had the time of my life music directing TITLE OF SHOW at The Repertory Theater of St Louis with an incredible cast. One of those cast members was the dynamite Amy Justman. When I read that Amy was part of this Carnegie Hall Event, I asked her if there was any way that I could see it if there was an open Dress Rehearsal. Amy worked her magic and this afternoon, I was part of a specially invited crowd to see the final dress rehearsal at 1pm. I had the added pleasure of sitting with Tari Kelly, a friend from my days at STAGES and currently the Standby for Reno Sweeney in ANYTHING GOES. Even before the rehearsal began, it was a special exciting afternoon. The enormous and glorious Orchestra took their place and the music director and conductor, Rob Fisher, waved his baton and the Overture began. To hear an orchestra of this size play this score was heaven. At the conclusion of the Overture, the stage and hall went to darkness when suddenly female voices surrounded you. The "Nuns" were stationed all around the hall in different corners so the sounds resonated from every inch of the room. I have never heard these opening musical moments sung more beautifully. Down the aisle these ladies came dressed in solid black gowns singing ALLELUIA and I buckled in. Then Laura Osnes twirled onstage and began singing the title song. I have seen Ms Osnes several times, most recently as Bonnie in the musical BONNIE AND CLYDE, and she fits the role of Maria perfectly. A stunning beauty with an equally impressive voice, she was the ideal Maria. Tony Goldwyn played Captain Von Trapp. Aside from looking like he is still finding his footing in a few moments, he was great. He sings very well and adds some sex appeal to Georg. Patrick Page took the day off from his duties as Green Goblin in SPIDER MAN TURN OFF THE DARK to play the role of Max and he's wonderful. Such a charming actor that makes every moment count as Max. Opera singer Stephanie Blythe plays Mother Abbess and her CLIMB EVERY MOUNTAIN is magnificent. Aside from a few thunderstorm effects, the lighting design is pretty limited. There is no scenic design except for some lovely projections that cover the back wall of the stage to set the locations. This effect works quite well, especially during the Wedding Sequence which almost makes you feel as though you are walking down the aisle with Maria. A big surprise near the end of the show happens during the Concert Sequence. The 3rd place winners at the Festival are played by 3 of the children from the movie version....Nicolas Hammond (Friedrich), Heather Menzies (Louisa), and Kym Kareth (Gretl). Finally, the biggest name in the cast is Brooke Shields, who plays Elsa the Baroness. She is simply gorgeous and looks almost regal in the part. Again, I could tell she was finding her way a few times, but by this evening, I think she will be fine. She's not a singer, never will be, but she doesn't embarrass herself and I applaud her guts. Gary Griffin has directed the Concert and he keeps the staging fluid and creates some nice pictures, especially in the final moments as the Von Trapps escape over the mountains. THE SOUND OF MUSIC is a crowdpleaser and always will be. The audience at Carnegie Hall this evening are getting a first class Concert accompanied by an extraordinary orchestra. I am so grateful that I got to see it and especially grateful to Amy Justman for making it happen.