'Sound of Music'

Once upon a time, a high-spirited postulant (nun-to-be) was sent to act as governess for the seven children of a widowed naval captain.

Capturing their hearts, the governess soon became one of the family. Their lifestyle was challenged by the rising power of the Nazis. The governess was named Maria and the happily ever after was "The Sound of Music."

The Wood Street Theater Company is bringing the beloved story to Cutting Hall in Palatine. Although the production has been performed many times, Wood Street officials say, fear not, they have a fresh take on the oldie but goodie.

"We are doing something non-traditional with this show," said Susannah Kist, co-director. "We've added the puppet scene from the movie in the stage play using about 20 children. We've also switched some of the locations of the songs so they won't be where they are expected to be from the movie."

Another rather unique take is presented during the song, "Do-Re-Mi." It's morphed into an elaborated scene, according to Sue MacInnes, who plays the part of Maria.

"There will be kids on bikes, people going into the audience and running around, with a lot of action for a large stage production," MacInnes said.

For the closing, the audience will be invited to sing along during "Edelweiss." That should come naturally for the audience, after spending the evening with characters that bring their own diversity to the production.

"The casting was non-traditional, too," Kist said. "Again, not trying to imitate the movie, we went with people who brought something interesting to the characters. We wanted people the audience could connect and relate to and we wanted to include a lot of people in the project."

Promoters are hoping this freshness will include many highs and surprises for playgoers.

"Clearly, one highlight will be the children in the production," MacInnes said. "They are incredible, with a lot of energy. They do a terrific job and the audience will be delighted with them."

If you go

Who: Wood Street Theater Company

What: "The Sound of Music"

When: 7:30 p.m. Friday-Saturday, 3 p.m. Sunday; 1:30 and 7:30 p.m. Feb. 2 and 1:30 p.m. Feb. 3

Where: Cutting Hall Theater, 150 E. Wood St., Palatine

Admission: $14, $12 seniors and students 18 and younger with ID

Call: (847) 338-0706