THE SOUND OF MUSIC | STAGE REVIEW
***
New Theatre, Cardiff, Wed 14 Feb
As the last few people sit down in the packed audience, a Gregorian chant fills the New Theatre with spirituality. The curtains open and we are welcomed by the beautiful voices of the nuns of the convent. Later, the first appearance of Maria (Lucy O’Byrne) singing {The Sound of Music} is a magical moment, revealing the enlightening and moving nature of our main character.
O’Byrne’s voice is beautiful and pleases the audience with its perfect pitch, lightness and suave vibrato, ringing into the ears as birds singing their morning call. Her acting is gentle, sweet, filling the heart with happiness and positive moods. Even in front of adversities Maria remains optimistic and hopeful, conquering the Captain von Trapp’s children from the very beginning.
The children give that amazing touch of cuteness and adorableness and I found myself going “aww” at least one hundred times throughout the performance.
However, the first act feels long and at times risks becoming boring due to the excessive amounts of positive and happy moments presented. Luckily, Megan Llewellyn is able to give that final twist to conclude the act. Her interpretation of {Climb Ev’ry Mountain} is exquisite and amazingly powerful. Her classical training fits perfectly with the musical theatre habitat and helps her to conquer the hearts of the audience who give her a massive round of applause.
Coming back to the second half, the show does not retain the same energy, while the pace becomes frenetic and hectic, running across the historical aspects of the plot, seeming a little forced. The depiction of Nazis is simplistic and over-egged, losing its meaning.
Captain von Trapp (Neil McDermott) sings a lot more, displaying a gorgeous low voice; powerful, round and resonant, in his lowest notes McDermott gives his best, while losing some strength in the medium-high range.
The show concludes having put on a performance which is enjoyable and family-friendly, despite the unbalanced nature of the two acts. The remarkable voices and great music accompany the story of the von Trapp Family for a night of happy entertainment.
words ANDREA GIANI