Harvest Christian Academy to perform 'The Sound of Music' Nov. 17-19
Harvest Christian Academy will present Rodgers and Hammerstein's last collaboration, "The Sound of Music," on Nov. 17-19 at the Huntley Park District's Cosman Theater, 12015 Mill St. Show times are 7 p.m. Thursday to Saturday, as well as a 1 p.m. matinee on Saturday.
Although "The Sound of Music" was written about historical events, the truths of family values and true love presented in this show are timeless.
"Being part of such an iconic and classic show brings excitement and pressure. However, the cast has worked diligently to deliver the 'Sound of Music' generations of people know and love," said junior Paige Abbatacola.
The family-friendly musical follows the adult life of Maria Rainer, Captain Von Trapp and his seven motherless children.
"'The Sound of Music' is a show about love, family, music and following what you believe in. It's not very hard to see why generations of people say this is one of their favorite shows," said junior Nathan Strissel.
Based on the true story of the Von Trapp Family Singers, this play captures a personal tale of growth and hope amid the horrors of World War II. This tale follows the life of the young postulant Maria Rainer, whose free spirit has trouble fitting into the rules and regulations of Nonnberg Abbey. Commissioned by the Mother Abbess to serve as the governess for seven motherless children, Maria transforms the Von Trapp family home from a place of dour rules to one filled with joy, laughter, and with music. In the process, Maria wins the hearts of all seven children - and their widowed father, Captain Von Trapp.
"Maria has the perfect balance of discernment to do the right thing while maintaining her ability to be childlike," said junior Olivia Williams, who plays Maria.
As Maria grasps the hearts of the Von Trapp children, she also manages to capture that of the audience. "This musical is personally one of my favorites," said vocal director Naomi Allen. "The music is practically magical, and it's been so much fun to piece it together with our very talented cast."
"A dream come true. This is how I feel about the opportunity to be a part of this production of 'The Sound of Music,'" said director Sara Yun. "The first time I saw 'The Sound of Music', I went with my six older siblings. I was exactly the age of Gretl and my eldest sister was 16 going on 17. The music and characters grabbed our hearts as it has many others."
The rewarding rehearsals draw this cast in as a family with a bond over music similar to that of Maria and the Von Trapp family. "The cast is like a family and that is easily seen in our acting. The writing is classic and the songs are amazing. It's a show I know the audience will enjoy," Noah Depledge said.
As in every family, there is a unique kind of love and in this show, there is no exception. "There is a special kind of love in 'The Sound of Music.' It is an unconditional, persevering kind of love woven into every character. This is what makes the show so beautiful," said junior Carista Ritchie. She also believes that the cast has found that love and portrays the love on and off stage.
Tickets are on sale at harvestchristianacademy.org/som. Tickets are $15 or $10 for students. Harvest Christian Academy in Elgin is home to more than 700 students in preschool through 12th grade.
Learn more at harvestchristianacademy.org.