The Sound of Music
Broadway musical
A heartwarming musical about a young governess and a family in Austria.
About This Theme
The Sound of Music has been a family favourite since 1959. The story of Maria and the von Trapp children offers wonderful opportunities for dancers of all ages, and the Rodgers and Hammerstein score includes some of the most beloved songs ever written. The contrast between the strict Captain von Trapp household and Maria's joyful influence gives your recital a clear emotional arc that audiences find deeply satisfying.
Do-Re-Mi is one of the most recognisable teaching songs ever written. The progression from note to note gives you natural choreographic structure, and audiences love singing along. The puppet show (Lonely Goatherd) offers creative staging opportunities, and So Long, Farewell is a perfect way to feature each child individually before the big finish.
Age Groups & Casting
Key Roles & Characters
Song Suggestions
Costume Ideas
Maria starts in simple clothes (perhaps her curtain-fabric playclothes for the mountains), then transforms for the wedding. The von Trapp children have their famous matching outfits - sailor suits or the play clothes made from curtains.
Captain von Trapp is military formal at first, softening as the show progresses. The nuns wear habits (simple black and white). Party guests for the ball provide an opportunity for elegant Austrian-inspired formalwear.
Staging & Set Ideas
The Austrian Alps can be suggested with a backdrop - mountain peaks, blue sky, green meadows. The von Trapp villa needs to feel grand but cold at first, then warming as Maria influences the family.
The abbey scenes can be simple with arches or crosses suggesting the religious setting. The puppet show requires a small stage (can be held by dancers). The escape over the mountains at the end benefits from dramatic lighting.
Ready to sell tickets for your The Sound of Music recital?
Stage Stubs makes it simple to sell tickets online. Create your event, set your prices, and start selling in minutes.
Looking for more inspiration?
