★★★☆

Celebrating the much-loved musical’s 50th anniversary, the London Palladium production of The Sound Of Music enters the Sydney stage with pomp and panache, young and old dressed to the nines and sparkling wine flowing like water.

As the lights dim, the orchestra opens to an operatic troupe of nuns, led by the glorious and indescribable register of Jacqueline Dark (Mother Abbess). They disperse to reveal our protagonist, Maria (played by Amy Lehpamer, immortalised by Julie Andrews), singing the musical’s eponymous song on the top of her mountain. From here, the performance quickly runs through the journey of Maria as she leaves the abbey to become the governess of the seven Von Trapp children.

But perhaps it is too quick. Knowing the constraints of a two-and-a-half-hour production inspired by a three-hour movie frustratingly doesn’t excuse the lack of characterisation this piece rightfully must restore if it wishes to hold a candle to its original. Revelations come too quickly and too bluntly as that old adage of ‘show, don’t tell’ is ignored. And while the ‘problem’ that is Maria is addressed, far too much emphasis is placed on injecting wit and humour instead of developing her character.

Storyline aside, where The Sound Of Music comes alive is in the score. Ignoring a handful of new numbers whose sole purpose is to give the supporting cast a chance to display their vocal talents, what remains are favourites that do not disappoint. Dark is a powerhouse who commands the stage as she rises to infinite heights in ‘Climb Every Mountain’, while much to the audience’s delight, Lehpamer stays true to Andrews’ vocal landscape.

Despite Lehpamer’s strength as a solo artist, it’s only when accompanied by the seven child singers that the production reaches its fullest potential as the songs ‘Do-Re-Me’, ‘The Lonely Goatherd’ and ‘So Long, Farewell’ reignite reminiscences of a childhood well-lived. Let the smart choreography and profound choral spirit transport you back to that place of joy, bliss and the sound of music.

The Sound Of Musicis now playing at the Capitol Theatre.

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