“The Sound of Music” is arguably Rogers and Hammerstein’s most well-known musical, and probably their best loved as well. The movie based on this show smashed box office records of its time, and remains one of the most popular movies of all time. As well, a recent revival has hit Broadway, and was recently nominated for a 1998 Tony Award for Best Revival of a Musical. Favourite songs include “My Favourite Things,” “Do-Re-Mi,” “Climb Every Mountain,” and, of course, the title song.

the Von Trapp children

The show is based on the true story of the Von Trapp Family singers. Maria Rainer, a young, free-spirited postulant at the nunnery in Salzburg is sent to be governess to Captain Georg Von Trapp’s seven children. She proceeds to win the love of first the children, and eventually the captain himself, who marries her. Unfortunately, the second World War and Hitler’s invasion of Austria intrude on the family’s happiness, and they flee their beloved Austria by climbing over the Alps.

Liesl and Rolf find love in "Sixteen Going on Seventeen"

G.S.S. first produced “The Sound of Music” in 1984. I have a special spot in my heart for this production, since it was my first introduction to G.S.S. Musical Theatre - I played Gretl, the youngest Von Trapp child. And when the show was produced again, 12 years later, I played in the orchestra for my last show in high school. The 1996 production was the first time the directors chose to repeat a show, and in the words of artistic director Jim McParland, “our feeling is that it is a classic show ... it is a show worthy of production at least once every decade, for the sake of both students and community.” This is a show that teaches us all the power of love, and the importance of climbing every mountain in pursuit of our dreams.

The Wedding

The pictures on this page are from the 1996 production, and were taken by Mr. Brian Mabee.