'The Sound of Music' returns to Rosary
Rosary High School will come alive with "The Sound of Music" as the school presents the classic musical Nov. 9-12 at Rosary's McEnroe Auditorium, 901 N. Edgelawn Drive in Aurora.
Performances are 6 p.m. Thursday, 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 9-12. Tickets are $10 for adults and $8 for students and senior citizens.
Tickets are available online at www.rosaryhs.com/musical. Tickets may also be purchased in the Rosary school office. Call the school at (630) 896-0831.
This musical is based on the true story of Maria Rainer, a spirited young postulant who was sent to serve as a governess for Captain Von Trapp, a widower with seven children.
Rodgers and Hammerstein's musical features favorites such as "Climb Every Mountain," "Edelweiss," "My Favorite Things," "Sixteen Going on Seventeen," and, of course, "The Sound of Music."
The production team includes Megan Drahos, producer, vocal and orchestra director, and director Laura Biancalana, both teachers at Rosary.
The cast, crew, and pit orchestra includes more than 90 students from Rosary High School and Marmion Academy in Aurora, as well as a few area children. Music is provided by members of the Rosary Symphony Orchestra, the Rosary Chamber Orchestra, and the Marmion-Rosary Band, as well as some local musicians. Several Rosary faculty and staff members will make cameo appearances as abbey nuns.
The Daily Herald caught up with Drahos and Biancalana to learn more about the show.
Q. Why did you choose "The Sound of Music" as your fall play?
Drahos. We chose "The Sound of Music" for several reasons. First, it was an excellent choice for our talented actors and pit musicians. Also, we knew this show featured many named roles and ensemble roles to showcase the abilities of our students. Lastly, it is a beloved classic that will attract a wide audience.
Q. What have been some of the challenges in putting together this production?
Biancalana. "The Sound of Music" is iconic, and audiences have specific expectations. Trying to meet the expectations as well as introduce the audience to our interpretation of the stage version is the greatest challenge.
Drahos. Another challenge has been the time frame for putting on such a large-scale production. Auditions happened the week after school started, and we only had about eight weeks to put the vocals, blocking, choreography, and the set/tech elements together.
Q. What do you think audiences will like best about this show?
Drahos. "The Sound of Music" is rich in character, music, and story, as well as filled with positive messages. The magic and charm of the Rodgers and Hammerstein score do not disappoint. The tuneful and beloved songs will make you laugh and make you cry. This story teaches us the gift of music, to enjoy life, and to love. And the themes of personal integrity and moral strength remain timeless and relevant.
Q. Anything else you'd like to share with readers?
Drahos. This show is special for many reasons. First, we have six grade-school students in the cast as well as many siblings.
We also have some special events happening during the show weekend. "The Sound of Music" has been performed four other times in our school history (1970, 1979, 1989 and 2009), and we have invited back alumni from these casts. They will be recognized during the show and will lead singalongs at the following events:
• At 6 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 11, adults can enjoy a wine reception and hot d'oeuvres before the 7 p.m. show, as well as desserts at intermission. The cost is $30. Preregistration is required; visit www.rosaryhs.com/musical or call (630) 896-0831.
• Everyone is invited to a family "Picnic in Vienna" with the cast at noon Sunday, Nov. 12. The cost is $5. Preregistration is required. Both events are fundraisers sponsored by the Rosary Fine Arts Boosters.