The Sound Of Music Reviews

Chicago Tribune - Highly Recommended

"...Austrians have good reason to love this show and the world-famous film it spawned; it bespeaks of a proudly patriotic level of resistance to the Anschluss and carefully avoids all mention of antisemitism in that nation, except for the slightest hint that Max, the promoter, is both Jewish and gay, as gently suggested by the actor Nicholas Rodriguez. As I wrote when I reviewed Tom Stoppard's "Leopoldstadt," which suggests a very different history and set of actions by the Austrian establishment, "Sound of Music" did more not just for Austrian tourism than all the promotional campaigns in the world, "Edelweiss" and all, but also for Austria's historical reputation."

Stage and Cinema - Highly Recommended

"...This is about as good a production of this musical as can be expected. Direction, scenic design, musicians, lighting design, acting, singing-everything is more or less firing on all cylinders, and what that unfortunately means is that if a production of this high quality cannot redeem the flaws in the book and music, short of a complete overhaul, nothing can. And given the level of adoration for the show, it really doesn't matter. This is about as close to a critic/criticism-proof show as has ever existed."

Around The Town Chicago - Highly Recommended

"...The cast in this particular production has some amazing talent. Cayleigh Capaldi is a marvelous Maria and the Mother Abbess ( Christine Noll) is superior. While that could be taken as a pun, it was meant to say, her vocal range is wonderful and her "Climb Every Mountain" that ends the first act is stunning!. I guess I was a little let down by the performance of Kevin Early as Captian von Trapp as I did not feel the love that should have been seen by the audience. Part of what makes this story so special is that Maria, through her personality, brings Georg ( von Trapp) back into the real world and back to his children. I did not feel it!"

Chicago Theatre Review - Highly Recommended

"...But in this new National Touring production The Hills Are Alive, as it manages to capture the film's big heart and overwhelming splendor. Featuring an unsurpassed cast, this sparkling musical returns to the Windy City. It's a heartwarming family production that makes an excellent first theatrical experience for young audiences. Treat yourself and "Climb Every Mountain" to see this beloved production before it leaves town."

Buzz Center Stage - Highly Recommended

"...The beloved Rodgers and Hammerstein classic The Sound of Music returns to the Windy City in a dazzling stage revival now playing at the James M. Nederlander Theatre. This timeless tale of love, courage, and music unfolds with renewed vibrancy, inviting audiences of all ages to fall in love all over again."

The Fourth Walsh - Highly Recommended

"...The whole show is one big love fest! If you’re looking for the perfect escape from tyranny, pull a Von Trapp… gather the family and run for the hills! Chicago is alive with THE SOUND OF MUSIC for a week and a half. Get to the Nederlander before these adorable kids sing their last “So Long, Farewell!”"

PicksInSix - Highly Recommended

"...Whether this is the first or fourth viewing for you, "The Sound of Music" at the Nederlander will provide a deep appreciation for the courage, resilience and hope embodied in the von Trapp family and, as well, one of the most satisfying and enjoyable theatrical experiences you will ever have."

Chicago Culture Authority - Highly Recommended

"...It adds up to nearly three hours of satisfying old-school entertainment that makes one wish we had more Von Trapps and fewer Max Detweilers and Elsa Schraeders among us these perilous days."

BroadwayWorld - Highly Recommended

"...With national tours, you never know what the stage design will be. This was stunning. Tours need to be able to move the pieces easily. The audience applauded when the curtain came up and we see the von Trapp home for the first time which has a beautiful staircase and a gorgeous chandelier. There are doors which open to the terrace. The mountains are on a painted backdrop but are very real. Bravo Douglas W. Schmidt!"

NewCity Chicago - Highly Recommended

"...Yet all of the warmth and familiarity of "The Sound of Music" is left intact with production values at the consistently highest level possible. Staging a traditional show like this often means having to choose between music or drama. Do you cast actors taught to sing, or singers taught to act? That line is blessedly blurred here with a uniquely first-rate cast in every respect, from leads to the smallest role. Every nun, every child-even the Nazis-are spectacularly well cast and never come off as caricatures. There is no detail left unturned."