Review: Theatre by the Sea's 'The Sound of Music' Speaks (and Sings) to Our Times

One of theater's most beloved musicals arrives at Theatre by the Sea as the company continues its 91st season with the Tony-winning classic "The Sound of Music."

Set in Austria in the tumultuous year of 1938 – on the eve of the Anschluss (the uniting of Austria and Germany into a "Greater Germany"), which drew both resistance and support from many – the much-loved musical speaks to our own unsettled times, though in a mostly upbeat and humorous production that's directed and choreographed by Michael D. Jablonsky (who previously helmed last season's "Beautiful: The Carole King Musical").

A young novitiate, Maria (Kim Sava) in Salzburg, Austria, may not be ready to take the vow of poverty in Nonnberg Abbey. Her fellow postulants, and the Mother Abbess (Amanda Hunter-Finch) as well, observe her unwillingness to adapt to the lifestyle of a nun – or, rather, her free-spirited nature and propensity to flee to the mountains to sing.

The Nazis in "Sound of Music" are portrayed as mustache-twirling villains, so it's easy to see why Captain Von Trapp (Keven Patrick Martin), a widowered father of seven children, would perhaps resist the political changes taking place in his home country. More engaging than this plot line is the central love story between he and Maria, who is initially frightened by the fact that she may indeed love him in return, and flees back to the Abbey.

Jablonski assembles a stellar cast, including John Gardiner (Broadway's "Jersey Boys") as Max Detweiler and Kyli Rae (also "Jersey Boys" Broadway and film) as Elsa Schreader.

Also featured are local New England actor Tom Lavallee (TBTS's 2010 "Chorus Line") as Franz, and local RI native Maria Day as Frau Schmidt. Rhode Island's Martin returns after appearing in last year's "Jersey Boys" production at this theater.

All provide glowing examples of a beloved musical done correctly: Soaring voices (it's all about the music, after all) and spirited choreography for the children in the cast to explore. The cast do justice to the show's beloved songs, too; Sava has the vocal stylings to capture the magical trappings of "My Favorite Things" and "The Lonely Goatherd," as well as the ability to command all of her scenes with skill.

The seven children are all well-drawn characters, and each shines in their respective moments. Mia Daley's Louisa captures the angst of a teen in love, while Ian Nicolato as Friedrich shines as the eldest boy. Bobbie Celine Doherty as Brigitta is perhaps the funniest of the children, and both Taylor Pezza's Marta and Matthew McGuirl stand out as the younger siblings. Adorable Elena Rose Taveras as Greta makes sure all eyes are on her, notably during "So Long, Farewell."

There's no absence of charm, nor drama, in this well-crafted and bright production of "Sound of Music." You'll probably want to return with your whole family.

"The Sound of Music" is running through August 17th at Theatre By The Sea, 245 Cards Pond Road, Wakefield, RI 02879. For information or tickets call 401-782-8587 or visit www.theatrebythesea.com.