The Hills are Alive

The Sound of Music  

The theatre darkens and, out of the darkness, a brilliant chorus of heavenly-harmonic nuns, bathed in shadows and the light of a colorful rose window, opens the show with breathtaking brilliance. This moving and magnificent “Preludium” sets the bar high for this five star production. The talented women’s ensemble is led by talented Broadway actress, the miraculous Christiane Noll, as the Mother Abbess. The ensemble raise their angelic voices in a resplendent praise of God that bookends this musical. Most definitely, “The Hills Are Alive!”

Directed by three-time Tony Award-winner, as well as a Lifetime Achievement Tony Award recipient, Jack O’Brien (SHUCKED, THE FULL MONTY) instills this new Touring production with great determination and a contemporary feel. Every line, every song feels like we’re hearing them for the first time, as if they’re coming straight from the heart of each character. There’s never a moment when the story isn’t moving forward. Gifted Musical Director and Orchestra Conductor Jonathan Marro’s talented pit musicians fill the gorgeous Nederlander Theatre with Richard Rodgers‘ rich, romantic Alpine-flavored score. 

And if the beauty and sheer power of a company of accomplished voices aren’t enough to impress, just wait. Douglas W. Schmidt’s elaborately elegant and detailed Scenic Design, as well as Jane Greenwood’s gorgeous, colorful palette of period Costumes, will absolutely clinch the deal. Never has this show looked and sounded more sumptuous, so beautiful to the eye and ear; Rodgers & Hammerstein would’ve been proud of what Director Jack O’Brien and his entire artistic team have accomplished. The show’s fresh, alive and actually feels like a brand new musical. It’s definitely  one of “My Favorite Things.”

Making her Broadway National Tour debut as Maria, Cayleigh Capaldi (TITANIQUE, FROZEN) brings energy, charisma and a fresh interpretation to the role. This young actress isn’t just talented; she’s a revelation to be relished. Gifted with a clear and compelling vocal style, Cayleigh has a sparkling, endearing personality and great chemistry, both with the Captain and the seven von Trapp children. Ms. Capaldi makes us we feel as if we’re meeting this character for the very first time. Opening on a mountain path and singing the lovely title song with heartfelt clarity and passion, the actress immediately wins over the audience. Cayleigh Capaldi sings from her heart and gives the illusion that she’s thinking up each lyric herself. 

When Ms. Capaldi reaches the office of the Mother Abbess, it’s obvious that she feels comfortable with her spiritual mentor. “My Favorite Things,” her lovely duet with the effervescent Christiane Noll (DEAR EVAN HANSON, RAGTIME), is natural and lighthearted, making both characters feel more realistic. Once Maria finds herself in the company of the seven adorable children entrusted to her care, Ms. Capaldi’s Maria portrays a believable young woman filled with insecurities, a love of life and a reverence for both God and music. She also possesses a huge sense of fun and sense of humor. By the time theatergoers witness Maria’s marriage to Captain von Trapp, or see her standing by her new family’s side in the musical festival, and finally Climbing Every Mountain to escape the Nazis, Cayleigh Capaldi has made Maria all her own.

As Captain Georg von Trapp, handsome and charming Broadway veteran Kevin Earley (OLD FRIENDS, LES MISERABLES) is one of the strongest leading men to play this role. Son of Chicago director Dyanne Earley, and a graduate of Mundelein High School, Kevin portrays a man who’s built a wall around himself since the death of his wife. The Captain’s prevented happiness, music and love from entering his life and the hearts of his children. His kids have even become little machines who answer to a boatswain’s whistle. But, under Maria’s magical influence, the Captain evolves into a far more likable, warmer character. By the second act, Georg is now a loving man, a caring father, an empathetic head of the household and a conscientious leader. This is the journey his character is destined to take, and Mr. Earley perfectly brings class and stature to Captain von Trapp. He eventually becomes even more lovable as Maria fills his life with music and love.

The seven von Trapp children are wonderfully cast and almost all of them are making their National Tour debuts. Ariana Ferch is a lovely, believable young Liesl, particularly in “Sixteen Going on Seventeen,” beautifully sung and danced with handsome Ian Coursey (ALWAYS SOMETHING THERE at the Marriott) as Rolf. He thankfully resists playing his role as an angry young man. Liesl’s budding trust in and love for Maria is one of the highlights of the musical. 

Eli Vander Griend displays an accomplished soprano voice as Frederich and Benjamin Stasiek portrays Kurt as a lovable, realistic little boy. Ava Davis’ precocious book-obsessed Louisa, Ruby Caramore’s considerate and charming little Marta and eight-year-old Luciana Vandette’s sweet baby Gretl round out this artistic family of juvenile stars. Only Haddie Mac, as a candid, unabashed Brigitta, has toured before in a show—and she’s especially excellent in this role. Whether marching around the house singing and signing the infectious “Do Re Mi,” or bouncing on Maria’s bed while belting out “The Lonely Goatherd” to mask a frightening thunderstorm, these children are the real stars of this production.

In addition, the cast features several talented Broadway veterans, such as stunning vocalist Kate Loprest (HAIRSPRAY, XANADU) as Georg’s self-entitled would-be fiancee, Elsa Schraeder; and Grammy nominee Nicholas Rodriguez (COMPANY, TARZAN) nicely plays brown-noser, music agent and producer, Max Detweiler. Two familiar faces from several other National Tours, John Adkison (MY FAIR LADY, THE ADDAMS FAMILY) plays staunch butler Franz, and Jennifer Malenke (INTO THE WOODS, CHARLIE AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY) is superb as the von Trapp’s fussy housekeeper. 

Thanks to Broadway in Chicago, Rodgers & Hammerstein beloved 1959 Tony Award-winning musical about the von Trapp Family once again graces a Chicago stage. A familiar show to most theatergoers, this SOUND OF MUSIC is like meeting a dear old friend once again, who’s changed for the better. Jack O’Brien’s production not only fills the stage with glorious sights and sounds, it feels realistic, intimate and particularly timely. Beyond all the spectacle, the fictional retelling is heartfelt and much-loved, mainly due to the popularity of the beloved Oscar-winning 1965 film. 

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.

Highly Recommended

Reviewed by Colin Douglas

Presented October 21-November 2 by Broadway in Chicago at the James M. Nederlander Theatre, 24 W. Randolph, Chicago.

Tickets are available at all Broadway in Chicago box offices, the BIC Ticket Line at 800-775-2000 or online at www.BroadwayInChicago.com.

Additional information about this and other area productions can be found by visiting www.theatreinchicago.com