The American Musical Theatre of San Jose celebrates the New Year
with the captivating von Trapp family and shares how the power of a
beautiful melody can heal the spirit and provide an escape from a
world edging toward war.
The American Musical Theatre of San Jose celebrates the New Year with the captivating von Trapp family and shares how the power of a beautiful melody can heal the spirit and provide an escape from a world edging toward war.
More than a theatrical experience, “The Sound of Music” is a cherished memory, filled with laughter, tears and, of course, some of the most unforgettable music ever written.
“The Sound of Music” runs through Feb. 2 at the San Jose Center for the Performing Arts, located at 255 Almaden Blvd. Showtimes are at 8 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays, 2 and 8 p.m. Saturdays and 1 and 6:30 p.m. Sundays.
The play is a true story of the postulant Maria Rainer (played by Sarah Uriarte Berry) set in Salzburg, Austria, in the late 1930s. In this well-loved musical, Maria proves too high-spirited for the religious life and is sent to serve as governess for the seven children of the widowed captain von Trapp (played by William Michals). Maria’s rapport with the von Trapp children, along with her generosity and spirit, gradually capture the heart of the stern Captain, and they are soon married.
When they return from their honeymoon, they discover that the nazis have invaded Austria and have demanded the captain’s immediate service in their Navy. The finale illustrates the family’s narrow escape over the mountains to Switzerland and freedom.
The original stage production of “The Sound of Music” received seven Tony Awards including Best Musical; the 1965 film version earned five Academy Awards including Best Picture and stands as the most successful movie musical of all time.
In addition to the timeless Rodgers and Hammerstein songs “My Favorite Things,” Do Re Mi,” “Climb Every Mountain” and “Edelweiss,” this stage production also features two songs written by Richard Rodgers for the film version – “I Have Confidence” and “Something Good.” One song from the original score not in the film, “How Can Love Survive?” also will be included in the production.
Berry comes directly to San Jose after receiving rave reviews as Maria in the Helen Hayes Theatre Company’s “The Sound of Music.” Berry’s Broadway credits include: “Les Miserables,” “Beauty and the Beast” and “The Boys From Syracuse.”
Michals takes a break from his role as Gaston in Broadway’s “Beauty and the Beast” to play Captain von Trapp. Michals’ other credits include “The Scarlet Pumpernel” and “Les Miserables.”
“The Sound of Music” cast also features Ann Arvia as Mother Abbess, Teri Hansen as Baroness Elsa Schraeder and Patrick Quinn as Max Deweiler.
The director of New Works at American Musical Theatre of San Jose, Marc Jacobs, is directing “The Sound of Music.” Jacobs also has directed AMTSJ productions of “The Music Man,” “La Cage zux Folles,” “Phantom,” “Singin’ in the Rain” and “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.”
Tickets for the show range from $40 to $65. For more information on the theater company or to purchase tickets visit amtsj.org or call 453-7108.
