PMT's The Sound of Music May Make You Cry

Lara Hayhurst as Maria
Rain drops on roses and whiskers on kittens
Bright copper kettles and warm woolen mittens-
Brown paper packages tied up with strings,
These are a few of my favorite things....

 

Let the nostalgia wash over you. Inhale a deep breath of contentment, letting the familiarity and warmth of it all enfold you. Now release.

And now? Go to YouTube and finish the song! Or, better yet, you can purchase tickets to go see it at the Byham Theater from now until Sunday, March 15th because the Pittsburgh Musical Theater has struck again! The Sound of Music is the current production they're gracing stages with, and let me tell you something- two words- standing ovation. Look, I hear you- even if you only thought this in your head- "All the productions get standing ovations. It's theater etiquette at this point!" Indeed, it is. However, these are no empty gestures of courtesy- no. This is pure, unadulterated enthusiasm- the kind that has audiences whistling, howling, and becoming not just patrons, but neighbors.

I watched antsy children settle and become mesmerized, strangers in close quarters become jointly enthused together, sharing in delight and folks break out into sincere conversation and well wishes during intermission, genuinely getting to know one another. Honestly, the production exuded that sort of atmosphere, one where- much like Maria's journey with the kids- you were invited to push past the bare niceties to truly enjoy one another's company. The beauty of it all is, unlike a dull event where you make conversation in order to distract yourself from the snore fest you're attending, this show was truly one of the best ways I've spent a Friday night- even amidst my enduring a severe lack of energy and steadiness due to a sickness. The musical brightened my spirits and had me pushing past it all to cheer and laugh and sing along to the canons we have all come to adore.

So, allow me to rap off the logistics of the masterminds and creative powerhouses behind this amazing production who are well deserving of the recognition and (hopefully) your patronage.

Colleen Doyno and Lara Hayhurst are a dynamic duo- the Director/Choreographer and leading lady Maria respectively, these two women set a high bar. Doyno was the glue that made this production so cohesive, strong, and magical. Her direction wrapped up a gift. There was a joy onstage that comes from a cast confident in their Head and happy with their work atmosphere. Doyno, thank you for your efforts. They exuded. Now Hayhurst was a weapon in and of herself, demanding our full attention when she came to the stage, and leaving hearts broken for the few minutes we weren't sure of her character's return in Act 2. We anxiously waited until her entrance, to which breaths of relief sighed out and hands paused mid applause, wanting to celebrate the moment, but also not wanting to be disruptive to her lines. Her grand facial expressions, absolutely comedic delivery, fairylike personality and resounding voice wrapped us up. The whole cast was top notch- delivery skills, singing, comedic timing, facial expressions, chemistry- it all appeared effortless in its excellence of execution.

Eva Hendricks (Liesl), Frederick Lychack (Friedrich), Camryn Hall (Louisa), William Lychack (Kurt), Charlotte Kinslow (Brigitta), Burgess Lychack (Marta) and Eva Donahey (Gretl) are a part of an alternating cast that switches with another casted group of children during the run time. However, these children were a force to be reckoned with.

The first time they sang a chorus without Maria, I cried. That is not a hip, millennial exaggeration, truly, my eyes filled with tears that poured over. The sound was so heavenly, so beautiful, controlled, melodious and powerful that my heart swelled and breath caught. I was shocked. I hadn't expected to be moved like that, but found myself more and more drawn in as the play continued. I was invested. Each of the audience members were invested in what this amazing cast/crew had put together. Friedrich hit a high note during "So Long, Farewell" that sent me into a fit of claps that erupted through the auditorium. Hendricks (Liesl) led the children's cast as the older sister with confidence, composure, lovely melodies and honed acting skills. Donahey tugged at our heartstrings as the most adorable and humorous baby Gretl.

I could go on and on, but I'll leave it at these final two- Caroline Nicolian first, who I'd be absolutely remiss not to mention. Her voice is angelic, strong and well trained. She was a beacon every time she entered the stage. Her performance left such an indelible mark- she was peaceful and humorous, calming yet relatable. She was a nun you could easily see yourself caught singing Britney Spears by and she'd give you a knowing, chastening glance, while smirking as she walked away, softly singing the following line, leaving you breathless. Nicolian was a gift as much as Hayhurst.

Lastly, Kim Brown (Original Costume Designer), Amber Kocher (Props Master), Kevin Kocher (Set Designer), Gemma Mitchell (Production Stage Manager), and Dr. Francesca Tortorello (Music Director), bravo! (Yes, I said, two more- meaning two more entities, not people.) The work the actors do on stage is only possible through the work done behind stage and in the pit and rafters. The cast of The Sound of Music had an elite team orchestrating the best flow, set, sound, dress and props for their success. The staging was so simple and perfect; it made me nearly question why Broadway ever spends so much on their intricate set designs. The entirety of the production used the same grand staircase for the Abbey, the Von Trapp home, the Hills (which certainly were alive), and the concert. The only changes came in set pieces and, occasionally, the backdrop, and even with that mere windows were dropped in or pulled up. Simple and effective. We always felt we were in a new place, a different world. The hair (Christopher Patrick) and costuming were a point of interest for me. They truly set the time period, tucking us into the world playing out before us. Many nods and applause to the ones who kept backstage running smoothly and kept the thunder (both literally and figuratively) of it all going strong (nods to Greg Brooks- Sound Designer). I'll say it again, I could go on and on, but I'd rather you see it for yourself. 
Pittsburgh Musical Theater's The Sound of Music is truly one of “My Favorite Things.” From someone who had never even seen the movie- I am now a fan.

Bravo to all involved. Dr. Tortorello, your leadership in the pit was incredible. Thank you.

Thank you to everyone for a night I am still raving about to friends. A night I will not forget.

For tickets to the show, you can visit pmt.culturaldistrict.org!

My Favorite Things